The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) participated in the National Conference on Marine Protection, held at the MEA Training Center in Beirut on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. SPNL was represented by a five-member delegation, including Director General Assad Serhal, reaffirming its commitment to marine and coastal conservation in Lebanon.
Keynote Speech by Malek Ghandour, President of LEF
In his opening address, Malek Ghandour, President of the Lebanese Environment Forum, emphasized the urgent need for stronger marine protection policies in Lebanon. He highlighted the critical role of MPAs in preserving marine biodiversity, supporting sustainable fisheries, and mitigating pollution impacts on coastal ecosystems. Ghandour also stressed the importance of collaboration between governmental institutions, NGOs, and local communities in ensuring the successful implementation of a Marine Protected Areas Network. His speech served as a powerful call to action, urging all stakeholders to work together for a sustainable and resilient marine environment.
As a founding member of the Lebanese Environment Forum (LEF), SPNL played a key role in the discussions. Ms. Bassima Khatib, Head of the Nature Conservation Department, delivered a significant intervention during the first session, where she highlighted SPNL’s 42-year journey from Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBBAs) to the establishment of Natural Parks.
SPNL’s Contribution to Conservation Efforts
During her presentation, Ms. Khatib outlined SPNL’s major conservation milestones, including:
✅ IBBA National Assessment – Identifying and mapping Lebanon’s most critical biodiversity areas.
✅ Reviving the Hima Approach – A traditional conservation model successfully reintroduced at the national and international levels.
✅ Establishing the First Natural Park – Ongoing efforts to develop Lebanon’s first Natural Park in the Upper Matn region at Upper Beirut Valley.
✅ Protecting Rawche Rock – Advocating alongside LEF for Lebanon’s first Natural Monument at Rawche Rock in Beirut.
✅ Expanding Hima Reserves – Collaborating with municipalities to protect 6% of Lebanon’s territory through 33 declared Himas, aligning with the 30×30 Global Biodiversity Framework.
The National Conference on Marine Protection
Led by the Lebanese Environment Forum (LEF) and funded by the European Union, the National Conference on Marine Protection showcased conservation efforts within the National Campaign for the Establishment of a Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Network.
The conference was structured into three key sessions:
🌊 Session 1: MPAs in Lebanon – Challenges, Achievements, and Opportunities.
🌍 Session 2: Management of Coastal Public Spaces and Marine Conservation.
🐟 Session 3: Sustainable Fishing and Biodiversity Conservation.
The event concluded with closing remarks emphasizing the need for strengthened collaboration and partnerships to ensure the successful establishment of a Marine Protected Areas Network in Lebanon.
SPNL remains committed to marine and coastal conservation, working alongside local and international partners to promote sustainable biodiversity protection and secure Lebanon’s natural heritage for future generations.
