Between July 25 and August 25, 2025, SPNL advanced a wide range of projects that strengthen biodiversity conservation, empower local communities, and address pressing environmental challenges. Much of this progress was driven by the efforts of Fatima Hayek, whose coordination across multiple initiatives reflects SPNL’s holistic approach to conservation. From the Bekaa Valley to the Beirut River Basin, this month’s activities underscore the organization’s role as a leader in reviving the Hima model while tackling modern environmental threats.
Strengthening Climate Resilience through Al Murunah
Fatima played a central role in reviewing and addressing consultant comments on Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) for Al Murunah and Al Murunah+, projects that focus on water security, climate resilience, and women’s empowerment in North Bekaa. She attended evaluation-related meetings, coordinated updates among partners, and prepared for the upcoming IUCN mission to Lebanon starting on 26 August. These steps are crucial to ensuring that interventions—from gabion walls and ponds to training programs for farmers, women, and youth—translate into long-term resilience for communities vulnerable to flash floods.
Advancing Wetland Protection with ProZHUM
Within the ProZHUM project (restoration of Anjar Wetland), Fatima finalized the baseline assessment and initiated the review process. She worked closely with new municipalities to ensure their endorsement of project goals and prepared for two Homat al Hima youth sessions scheduled for September. Additionally, she launched a mentorship initiative with Kon Fares, aiming to build the capacity of emerging CSOs in wetland conservation.
Combating Illegal Killing of Birds (IKBs)
Illegal bird hunting remains a pressing issue in Lebanon. Fatima’s coordination with Adonis ensured progress on the survey of hunting drivers, previously translated into Arabic, which will be filled by hunters in target areas. She also engaged in technical discussions to refine reporting from earlier data collection phases. This work contributes to SPNL’s ongoing efforts to reduce wildlife crime in West Bekaa, Dannieh, and Keserwan.
Towards Lebanon’s First Natural Park – The SDC Project
SPNL’s pioneering efforts to establish the Upper Beirut River Valley Natural Park also progressed this month. Fatima convened with Abadiyeh municipality and environmental committees to reinforce local support, while coordinating internally with the SPNL team on developing the park charter and preparing visits to 17 municipalities. Preparations for the public launching event are already underway.
Tackling Pollution in the Litani River – DIMFE
Pollution in the Upper Litani River Basin and Qaraoun Lake continues to threaten biodiversity and livelihoods. Fatima engaged in high-level meetings with the Litani River Authority (LRA) and the Ministry of Environment, aligning strategies and collecting critical data. Field visits to the West Bekaa included seven municipalities, while consultations clarified the legal frameworks around dairy industries and pollution control. These efforts pave the way for implementing model solutions to treat wastewater and reduce industrial pollutants.
Bioconnect and Other Achievements
SPNL also advanced the BioConnect project, with Fatima contributing to technical and financial reporting for QR14. She supported the organization of a regional Hima webinar with BirdLife International, liaised with a master’s student researching the Hima approach, and represented SPNL in an ESCWA meeting on renewable energy and wastewater. Her participation in an MP training with Elie Haddad further strengthened SPNL’s technical capacities.
Looking Ahead
For September, SPNL’s priorities include:
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Supporting the IUCN mission to Lebanon.
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Launching events for the SDC Natural Park and DIMFE Litani River projects.
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Advancing ProZHUM’s management plan and training activities.
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Continuing implementation of IKB surveys and community engagement.
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Developing proposals and concept notes, including outreach to the Swiss Embassy and DIMFE.
🌿 Through projects like Al Murunah, ProZHUM, DIMFE, SDC, and BioConnect, SPNL continues to demonstrate how conservation science, community action, and traditional Hima stewardship can come together to protect Lebanon’s environment and empower its people.
