The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is proud to announce that 27 Hima sites across Lebanon have been officially approved by the Lebanese Ministry of Environment for inclusion in the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA), managed by the UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC).
The official letter of approval, signed by Minister of Environment Dr. Tamara Al-Zein and dated June 20, 2025, confirms Lebanon’s commitment to global biodiversity conservation efforts through the recognition of community-based Hima sites under IUCN Category VI Protected Areas. The submission was based on the Data Contributor Agreement signed by SPNL on May 27, 2025.
The dataset includes 27 spatial polygons and attributes reflecting the boundaries and conservation features of these Himas, which were validated and submitted by SPNL as part of its long-standing mission to protect nature through locally grounded and culturally rooted conservation approaches.
Assad Serhal, Director General of SPNL and a leading advocate of the Hima revival, praised this milestone:
“This is a historic day for Lebanon and for community-based conservation globally. The recognition of 27 Himas in the WDPA is a testament to the power of local stewardship and traditional knowledge. It shows that grassroots environmental efforts, grounded in our cultural heritage, can make a global impact.
We were just talking about this amazing global and national accomplishment by this amazing NGO and heroic SPNL team.
This success is unmatched globally by any NGO operating under such extremely challenging political, security, and economic conditions.”
As part of this achievement, SPNL extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Tamara Al-Zein, Minister of Environment, for her support, trust, and commitment to institutionalizing the Hima model as a recognized national conservation mechanism. Her leadership has played a vital role in elevating Lebanon’s environmental heritage to the international stage.
The Hima approach, which dates back over 1,500 years, has been revived by SPNL as a holistic model integrating biodiversity conservation, sustainable land use, and community empowerment. With this latest recognition, Lebanon positions itself as a regional pioneer in inclusive and resilient conservation practices.
SPNL remains committed to expanding the Hima network and strengthening collaboration with national and international partners to ensure a sustainable future for both people and nature.
