At a time when environmental and climate challenges are accelerating worldwide and pressure on natural resources and biodiversity continues to intensify, Lebanon’s “Hima” model is emerging as an innovative approach that redefines the relationship between people and nature, offering an integrated framework that combines environmental protection with sustainable community development.
In a new episode of The Earthbound 30×30, host Mirabel Taoum welcomed environmental leader Assad Serhal, Director General of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), Chair of BirdLife International’s Middle East Partnership, Honorary Member of both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and BirdLife International, and recipient of the prestigious Midori Prize for Biodiversity.
The discussion explored the scientific and historical dimensions of protected areas, as well as the fundamental differences between conventional nature reserves and Lebanon’s historic “Hima” system.
Serhal explained that a “Nature Reserve” is one category within the internationally recognized classifications of protected areas established by the IUCN. Its primary objective is the protection of biodiversity, ecosystems, and endangered species within state-owned lands managed under strict legal frameworks.
He noted that Lebanon officially recognizes four main categories of protected landscapes:
- Nature Reserves
- Hima Sites
- Natural Parks
- Natural Areas
According to Serhal, the concept of “protected areas” became widely adopted in the Arab world after the mid-20th century, while some conservation systems globally date back more than two centuries, such as the national parks established in the United States.
“Hima”: A Four-Thousand-Year-Old Conservation System
In contrast, Serhal emphasized that the “Hima” model represents a fundamentally different philosophy of conservation. Rather than focusing solely on protecting nature, Hima integrates local communities into the management and stewardship of natural resources.
He explained that the Hima system, which originated more than 4,000 years ago in the Arab region, is based on the principle of sustainable resource use. It aims to protect water sources, forests, wildlife, and ecosystems while preserving the rights, traditions, and cultural heritage of local communities.
Unlike nature reserves, which are established through state legislation and managed by official committees under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment, Hima governance relies on municipalities and local communities, making it a decentralized and community-driven conservation model.
A Complementary Relationship Between State and Society
Serhal stressed that the relationship between “Nature Reserves” and “Hima” should not be viewed as competitive, but rather complementary, with each model playing a distinct role in achieving conservation goals.
He highlighted that Lebanon currently includes:
- 18 officially designated Nature Reserves
- Numerous protected forests managed by the Ministry of Agriculture
- 45 Hima sites distributed across the country
He added that internationally recognized Hima sites now cover approximately 6.5% of Lebanon’s territory. Combined with protected reserves and forests, Lebanon has already reached nearly 22% protected land coverage as part of the global “30×30” target, which seeks to conserve 30% of the planet’s land and marine areas by 2030.
Lebanon as a Global Conservation Example
Serhal revealed that Lebanon’s Hima experience has gained increasing international recognition, with global environmental organizations adopting it as a successful model for biodiversity conservation through community engagement.
He noted that during a major international environmental conference held recently in Abu Dhabi — attended by more than 12,000 environmental experts and representatives from 170 countries — the Lebanese Hima model was highlighted as an example of environmental and social peacebuilding.
According to Serhal, the concept of “Hima for Peace” demonstrates how conservation can help resolve disputes over land and natural resources while simultaneously protecting biodiversity and supporting local communities.
He also announced that he had been officially invited to present Lebanon’s Hima experience at an upcoming international conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where it will be showcased among five leading global conservation models focused on community participation in environmental protection.
Nature Is No Longer a Luxury — It Is a Condition for Survival
Concluding the episode, Serhal delivered a strong environmental message, stressing that climate change and ecological disasters do not recognize political borders.
He warned that floods, wildfires, and environmental degradation are clear signals from nature, emphasizing that humanity must rebuild its relationship with the environment on the principles of respect, balance, and sustainability.
“Protecting nature is no longer optional,” Serhal affirmed. “It has become essential for the survival and security of future generations.”
He concluded by stating that the Hima system offers a balanced and forward-looking approach that allows people to coexist harmoniously with nature while safeguarding biodiversity, natural resources, and cultural heritage for generations to come.
🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube
