By Miryam Salloum Biodiversity Research and Data Manager
The full SPNL 2024 Annual Report is available for download at this link.
Amid Lebanon’s breathtaking landscapes, a unique initiative is bridging the gap between conservation efforts and ecological awareness. Miryam Salloum, Biodiversity Research & Data Manager at the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), has unveiled a groundbreaking map design that showcases how the Hima approach provides essential connectivity between Lebanon’s Nature Reserves, Biosphere Reserves, and Important Bird Areas (IBAs). This map is not just a scientific tool but a visual narrative that captures the essence of Lebanon’s rich biodiversity and its interconnected natural systems.
The Hima model, rooted in a centuries-old community-based conservation tradition, is central to SPNL’s mission. By empowering local communities to sustainably manage their natural resources, the Hima approach fosters harmony between people and nature. Salloum’s map highlights how Hima sites act as vital ecological corridors, linking protected areas and supporting the movement of wildlife.
At the heart of the map are key Lebanese flora and fauna species, carefully illustrated to emphasize their vital roles in the ecosystem. Iconic birds such as the Northern Wheatear and the striking Syrian Woodpecker highlight Lebanon’s rich avian diversity, while mammals like the elusive striped hyena, the resilient Eurasian badger, the majestic grey wolf, and the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal remind viewers of the country’s unique and fragile ecological tapestry. Native flora, including the stunning Sofar iris and the enduring Lebanon cedar, add a touch of botanical splendor, symbolizing the resilience and beauty of the region’s natural heritage.
The map’s design is rooted in a robust foundation of reliable references, ensuring both accuracy and credibility. The base map is provided by ESRI, a global leader in Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, offering precise geospatial data and visualization. Additionally, the map incorporates data from the Protected Planet: The World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA), an authoritative resource managed by UNEP-WCMC and IUCN. The latest update, from November 2024, provides comprehensive information on protected areas worldwide, enabling Salloum’s design to effectively highlight Lebanon’s Nature Reserves, Biosphere Reserves, and IBAs within the global context of conservation efforts. This blend of local and international datasets enhances the map’s scientific rigor and global relevance.
“This map is a testament to the connectivity that nature needs to thrive,” says Salloum. “It’s not just about individual protected areas but the pathways that link them, allowing species to move, migrate, and flourish. Lebanon’s Hima sites are the threads that weave this fabric together.”
The map also underscores the pressing need for biodiversity conservation in a region facing mounting environmental challenges. Habitat fragmentation, urbanization, and climate change threaten Lebanon’s natural treasures. Salloum’s map, however, is a beacon of hope, showing how the Hima model offers a scalable and community-driven solution.
Beyond its scientific and educational value, the map is a call to action for policymakers, conservationists, and the public. It highlights the role of local communities in safeguarding biodiversity and the importance of sustainable land use. By visually connecting the dots between Lebanon’s diverse habitats, the map inspires a sense of pride and responsibility among its viewers.
Miryam Salloum’s design also bridges art and science. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that the map is both accurate and aesthetically engaging. Each symbol, color, and line is carefully chosen to resonate with diverse audiences, from researchers and educators to nature enthusiasts.
SPNL plans to use the map in schools, environmental campaigns, and stakeholder meetings to promote the Hima approach and encourage collaborative conservation efforts. “We want people to see this map and feel connected to the land, to understand that they are part of this intricate web of life,” Salloum adds.
In a world where nature often feels distant, Salloum’s map is a reminder that connectivity is key—not just for ecosystems but for the human spirit. By linking Lebanon’s natural jewels, it offers a vision of hope, resilience, and unity for future generations.
