On the occasion of World Bee Day and the International Day for Biological Diversity, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting ecosystems and restoring harmony between people and nature. Through its unique approach of reviving the traditional Hima system, SPNL is offering one of the most community-embedded and sustainable models for biodiversity conservation in Lebanon and the Mediterranean region.
34 Hima Sites: A Haven for Biodiversity and Pollinators
As pollinators like bees face global threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change, SPNL has been working hand in hand with local communities and municipalities to expand Lebanon’s network of Hima sites—now totaling 34 officially recognized areas. These Hima sites stretch across Lebanon’s coast, mountains, wetlands, and inland valleys, offering sanctuaries for native flora and fauna.
In Hima areas such as Hammana, Ras El Matn, El-Fekha, and Anjar, field monitoring has recorded significant increases in wild bee populations, bird sightings, and butterfly diversity. These are powerful indicators of recovering ecosystems where sustainable practices prevail, and nature is given space to regenerate.
Bees: Strategic Allies in Food Security
Bees are vital to global food systems, with over 75% of food crops depending on animal pollination. The decline in bee populations poses a direct threat to food security, especially in agrarian communities.
SPNL’s efforts to support traditional beekeeping within Hima sites, promote wild pollinator habitat protection, and raise awareness among farmers and youth are contributing to the resilience of local economies. Wild honey, thyme, sumac, and other nature-based products are gaining new economic value through sustainable harvesting in Hima communities.
Hima: A Lebanese Model Aligned with 2030 Goals
Amid growing environmental crises, the Hima model provides a holistic, culturally rooted, and community-driven response aligned with the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It directly supports:
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Goal 15 (Life on Land),
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Goal 13 (Climate Action),
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and Goal 11 (Sustainable Communities).
SPNL’s Hima work also advances the global “30×30” vision—to protect 30% of the world’s land and seas by 2030—by demonstrating how local stewardship can complement formal protected areas.
A Call to Action: From Hima to National Policy
On this dual occasion, SPNL calls upon national stakeholders to:
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Formally recognize Hima sites in national environmental frameworks and strategies.
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Empower local communities to take a leading role in conservation and land use decision-making.
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Support research and monitoring of pollinators and biodiversity, especially in the face of climate change.
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Expand partnerships with municipalities, schools, universities, and civil society to scale up environmental education and public engagement.
