The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) applauds National Geographic Arabia for its continued leadership in promoting environmental awareness and celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the Arab region. The magazine’s latest issue, released in May 2025, features a diverse range of investigations and articles that shed light on the adaptive capacities of species, revive forgotten chapters of history, and address pressing environmental challenges.
Among its highlights is an outstanding article by Moza J. Al Hammadi, titled “The Hima in the Arabian Peninsula: Embodying the Balance Between People and Nature.” The piece presents a rich and comprehensive exploration of the Hima system—one of the oldest traditional conservation models in the Arab world—showcasing its deeply rooted legacy of communal stewardship, its transformation under Islamic jurisprudence, and its enduring relevance in today’s quest for sustainable, community-based nature protection.
SPNL, which has revived the Hima model since 2004 in partnership with local communities, sees this article as a powerful recognition of the efforts of thousands who have worked to conserve biodiversity and natural resources through the establishment of 34 Hima sites across Lebanon. The article reinforces the Hima’s value as a culturally grounded solution that aligns with global nature-based approaches (NbS) and the principles of community-led environmental governance.
The May issue also features a rich editorial lineup, including:
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“Secrets of the Penguins” – a look into the unique biological features that help penguins thrive in extreme conditions, while questioning their fate under accelerating climate change.
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“An Ancient Empire Lost to Time” – a journey into the Hittite civilization in Anatolia, exploring its historical significance and the recent archaeological discoveries that bring its legacy back to light.
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“Paddling Through America’s Greatest Waterways” – an adventure-packed travelogue down North America’s vast canoe trail, offering reflections on wilderness, Indigenous communities, and the writer’s personal insights.
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“Australia’s Camel Dilemma” – a timely report on the ecological and economic issues caused by the uncontrolled spread of camels imported in past centuries for desert exploration.
SPNL emphasizes that the inclusion of the Hima in such a prestigious publication elevates the discourse on traditional ecological knowledge and underscores the potential of indigenous systems in addressing modern environmental threats. The Hima model is not only about conserving nature but also preserving intangible cultural heritage, promoting environmental justice, and advancing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals—particularly Goal 15 (Life on Land) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).
National Geographic Arabia, published by Abu Dhabi Media since October 2010 in partnership with the global National Geographic (founded in 1888), continues to be a leading knowledge platform that connects Arabic-speaking audiences to science, nature, and global environmental issues.
