SPNL Himas Recognized in UNDP Protected Areas Map: A Major Milestone for Conservation in Lebanon

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) proudly announces the recognition of its Hima initiatives in the newly launched UNDP map of Lebanon’s protected areas. This significant milestone underscores over two decades of tireless efforts by SPNL in partnership with local communities and municipalities to revive the Hima model across Lebanon.

This map is the result of a joint effort in Lebanon by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL).

From the marine Himas along the Eastern Mediterranean shores to the mountains, valleys, forests, wetlands, and semi-desert areas, SPNL has worked to protect Lebanon’s natural jewels. These landscapes represent the country’s rich natural heritage, safeguarded through the collaborative efforts of national and international partnerships.

This recognition comes alongside notable achievements:

• National Recognition: Through Lebanon’s Protected Areas Law.
• Global Recognition: Via BirdLife International, linking Hima to Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBBAs) and IUCN Motion 121.
• Prestigious Awards: Including the Midori Prize for Biodiversity and the UN-Habitat and Dubai Municipality Award.

The Hima model, as redesigned by SPNL, connects cultural and natural heritage, integrating traditional practices with modern science to provide nature-based solutions for conservation. This innovative approach has gained global traction, contributing to Lebanon’s commitment to the 30×30 Global Target—protecting 30% of its land and sea by 2030.

Assad Serhal, SPNL Director General, expressed gratitude to the SPNL team, board members, partners, and donors for their unwavering support and belief in the power of local communities to create lasting change. “Hima is here to stay for years to come, thanks to the heroic efforts of Homat Al-Hima, our Hima heroes,” said Serhal.

This recognition marks a new chapter for SPNL as it expands the Hima model beyond Lebanon, reaching the Mediterranean and the Middle East, further linking conservation with biodiversity and human rights.

The announcement coincides with the UNDP workshop on Lebanon’s protected areas, where SPNL’s achievements will be celebrated as a cornerstone of national and regional conservation efforts.