February was a pivotal month for the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) as conservation efforts took center stage. With a strong focus on planning, coordination, and outreach, the team engaged in key meetings, set the stage for an ambitious Traveling Biodiversity Exhibition, and continued their mission to integrate communities into conservation efforts.
Building Bridges for Conservation
A major highlight of the month was the continuation of the Bio-Connect Project, a European Union-funded initiative that seeks to strengthen the management of Lebanon’s Sites of Ecological Importance while expanding biodiversity protection. A series of meetings were held at the Mount Lebanon Hima Center (MLHC) and in West Bekaa, focusing on the next phase of the project. These discussions revolved around the implementation of the 2nd Hima Forum and laying the groundwork for the Traveling Biodiversity Exhibition.
The Traveling Biodiversity Exhibition will be a cornerstone of SPNL’s community engagement strategy. Over the next three months, the exhibition will visit 10 municipalities across Lebanon, raising awareness about biodiversity, conservation priorities, and sustainable environmental practices. Developed in partnership with Bio-Connect stakeholders, this initiative will also be youth-led, with Homat Al Hima (HH) members playing a key role in facilitating activities and interacting with local communities.
To amplify the visibility of the Bio-Connect Project, SPNL also worked on a series of articles aimed at raising awareness and increasing public participation in conservation efforts. These efforts were complemented by outreach to the new Minister of Environment, seeking both a strategic partnership and ministerial patronage for the upcoming Traveling Exhibition.
SPNL Fish & Wildlife Unit: Technical and Field Work in Action
While much of the work in February was dedicated to strategic planning, technical efforts continued to gain momentum, particularly in the areas of fish and wildlife protection and anti-poaching enforcement. SPNL’s Fish & Wildlife Unit has been actively coordinating training sessions in Bekaa, aimed at equipping conservation units, schools, and local authorities with the knowledge and tools needed to combat illegal hunting and promote sustainable wildlife management.
Additionally, meetings with DIMFI (Domaine International des Marais et Forêts Indigènes) were held to discuss necessary amendments to ongoing projects, ensuring that SPNL’s programs align with both national and international conservation goals.
Looking Ahead: A Packed Agenda for March
March is set to be another impactful month, with a series of activities planned to strengthen SPNL’s conservation efforts:
🔹 Training for Fishermen in Al Mansouri Hima – Educating local fishermen on sustainable fishing practices to protect marine biodiversity.
🔹 Training Sessions on Wildlife Conservation and Anti-Poaching – Held in three schools in the Bekaa region, these workshops aim to instill an early appreciation for wildlife protection among students.
🔹 Site Visit to West Bekaa Hima – As part of the Bio-Connect Project, SPNL will continue its engagement with local communities, ensuring that conservation efforts are inclusive and community-driven.
🔹 Meetings on Hima’s Program in Zahle Schools – Further expanding SPNL’s education and awareness programs, these discussions will explore ways to integrate conservation education into school curricula.
Expanding Conservation Initiatives
With new project ideas in the pipeline, SPNL remains committed to expanding its impact. The team is actively exploring new funding opportunities and donor partnerships to sustain and scale up efforts. By securing additional support, SPNL aims to develop innovative programs that protect Lebanon’s rich biodiversity while fostering community-led conservation initiatives.
A Collective Effort for Lebanon’s Natural Heritage
Conservation is a collective responsibility, and SPNL’s work this month highlights the power of partnerships, education, and community engagement. As the organization gears up for an action-packed March, the focus remains on empowering local communities, enhancing environmental awareness, and driving sustainable change.
Stay tuned for updates as SPNL continues to lead Lebanon’s biodiversity conservation efforts!
👉 Learn more about our Fish and Wildlife initiatives here: SPNL Fish & Wildlife Unit
