As part of its Doroub Al-Hima project activities, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) organized a special environmental day for students from the Shamlan Social Institution, affiliated with the Social Welfare Institutions in Lebanon – Dar Al Aytam Al Islamiya.
The activity offered an open space for beauty, challenge, and resilience. Several students with intellectual disabilities took part—some for the very first time—in a unique experience that blended walking in nature with community interaction and discovery.
After their nature walk, the students enjoyed a traditional Lebanese breakfast at “Al Bayt” restaurant. The warm atmosphere and delicious dishes fostered a sense of togetherness, followed by a brief rest before continuing the day’s program.
The next stop was the Baisour Equestrian Club, where the students engaged in an interactive recreational session. They met horses, watched live demonstrations, and some bravely experienced horseback riding for the first time—encouraged by cheerful support from those around them.
This initiative highlights SPNL’s commitment not only to nature and biodiversity conservation but also to social justice and inclusive environmental engagement. People with disabilities often face multiple barriers that limit their full participation in environmental matters.
Recognizing this, SPNL has incorporated disability inclusion into its action plan, understanding that environmental justice cannot be realized without universal access, inclusive participation, and equal opportunities. The approach includes:
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Ensuring Accessibility: Adapting trails and facilities in natural areas to accommodate persons with disabilities.
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Inclusive Environmental Education: Creating materials in sign language, simplified formats, and through assistive technology to ensure equitable access to information.
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Promoting Active Involvement: Encouraging the participation of persons with disabilities in Hima and protected area committees, sustainable agriculture projects, and efforts to monitor illegal hunting and fishing.
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Advocating Policy Change: Working to include disability issues in national and international environmental strategies and policies.
Through Doroub Al-Hima, SPNL affirms that protecting nature must go hand in hand with upholding human dignity—and that a healthy, sustainable environment should be accessible and inclusive for everyone.
