The Center of Excellence for Climate Change and Environmental Technologies (CCC) was established at the Arab American University in Palestine in 2018 as the first research center dedicated to climate change issues in Palestine. The Center serves as a pivotal pillar in promoting environmental sustainability through its diverse activities in scientific research, education, technology, and community engagement. The Center aims to achieve national and regional leadership by developing innovative solutions to adapt to and mitigate climate change, directly contributing to sustainable development and green growth.
The Center has advanced infrastructure, including a University-based carbon emissions measurement station, which is used to monitor and assess the institution's carbon footprint, reflecting the University's commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. It also has a meteorological station that enables the collection of accurate data on local climate change, used to support relevant academic and community research. Additionally, the Center features a smart greenhouse that integrates climate-smart agriculture and water management technologies, opening the way for practical applications in environmental agricultural education.
The center has also developed a curriculum for a course in environmental sustainability to enhance students' awareness and build their capacity to address contemporary environmental challenges. This academic orientation enhances the University's position as an environmentally responsible educational institution.
At the project level, the Center participates in international initiatives such as the AGRIMAR Climate-Smart Agriculture Project and the OKP Capacity Building Project in Water and Agriculture, which enhance its contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and developing effective local and international partnerships. The Center's Advisory Board, which includes representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, Energy, and Water, also contributes to aligning the Center's activities with national policies and promoting environmental governance.
Thus, the Center of Excellence for Climate Change and Environmental Technologies serves as a successful national model for the role of universities in addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability through education, research, technology, and community engagement.