As part of its ongoing efforts to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable development, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is implementing the “Doroub Al-Hima” project, an 83-kilometer eco-trail connecting eight villages in the Aley district. The project aims to promote the concept of “Hima”, a traditional Lebanese practice that involves local communities in the protection of natural resources, making it a unique model that combines environmental heritage with sustainable development.
Project Significance
“Doroub Al-Hima” is more than just a hiking trail or a tourism initiative; it is a comprehensive project designed to generate environmental, economic, and social benefits through several key objectives:
- Encouraging Eco-Tourism
The project provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes and enjoy hiking trails between villages, thus promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable sector that supports the local economy. - Environmental and Biodiversity Protection
The initiative strengthens efforts to safeguard Lebanon’s unique ecosystems by curbing harmful activities such as unregulated urban expansion and illegal hunting. It also encourages local communities to adopt environmentally friendly practices. - Empowering Local Communities
The project offers new economic opportunities for village residents by enabling them to provide various services to visitors, such as tour guiding, preparing traditional meals, and offering rural accommodations. This contributes to improving livelihoods and fostering economic stability. - Environmental Awareness
The initiative includes educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources and fostering a culture of sustainability among both visitors and local communities. - Job Creation
The project is expected to create employment opportunities for approximately 60 individuals from the local community, including tour guides, hospitality service providers, and artisans. This helps reduce rural migration and enhances community stability.
Funding and Partnerships
The “Doroub Al-Hima” project is being implemented with the support of the BioConnect Project, funded by the European Union, which seeks to strengthen the link between nature and local communities by supporting sustainable environmental initiatives. This funding is being used to develop the trail’s infrastructure, improve tourism services, and support community-based activities that raise environmental awareness and encourage local residents to engage in conservation efforts. Additionally, the project focuses on building the capacities of individuals working in the eco-tourism sector, enabling them to offer a more sustainable and comprehensive tourism experience.
Progress Achieved So Far
Since its launch, significant progress has been made on the project. A large portion of the trail has been completed, with paths rehabilitated and essential infrastructure developed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. Trail maps have been designed, and local tour guides have been trained to provide informative experiences about the region’s biodiversity and cultural history. Moreover, several awareness activities have been conducted to engage local residents in environmental conservation efforts.
Future Prospects
Given the project’s success so far, SPNL aims to expand the “Doroub Al-Hima” trail to additional areas, allowing more villages to benefit from its economic and social advantages. Plans are also underway to launch new environmental and educational programs to strengthen the connection between local residents and nature while encouraging youth to play an active role in environmental protection.
Additionally, the project is working to develop more sustainable tourism services by enhancing infrastructure and forging partnerships with key stakeholders in the eco-tourism sector, including tourism companies and international environmental organizations. These efforts are expected to increase the number of visitors and position Lebanon as a leading eco-tourism destination in the region.
“Doroub Al-Hima” serves as a successful model of environmental projects that merge nature conservation with economic development. It highlights the importance of integrating environmental heritage into sustainable development strategies. Through this initiative, the Hima concept evolves from an ancient tradition into a modern tool for protecting natural resources, supporting local economies, and promoting eco-tourism, making it a valuable addition to Lebanon’s eco-tourism landscape.
About the BioConnect Project
The BioConnect Project, funded by the European Union, aims to enhance the governance and management of environmentally significant sites in southern Lebanon by establishing new protected areas to safeguard landscapes and biodiversity on a broader scale.
The project is implemented by four key partners:
- Shouf Biosphere Reserve Association (ACS)
- Association for Rural Capacity Development (ADR)
- Association for Community and Environment (ACE)
- Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL)
These partners work together to improve the management of important environmental sites, establish new protected areas, and implement “Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures” (OECMs) to ensure a more holistic approach to landscape conservation.
