The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon, SPNL, has officially released the seventh issue of Al Hima magazine, reaffirming its commitment to advancing community-led conservation and positioning Lebanon as a regional leader in nature-based solutions.
This latest edition comes at a critical moment for environmental action in Lebanon and the wider region, bringing together scientific insight, traditional knowledge, and global perspectives under the unifying theme: “From Ridge to Coast, One Hima at a Time.”
A Vision Rooted in Community and Science
In his editorial, SPNL Director General Assad Serhal underscores a defining milestone in Lebanon’s environmental journey, the endorsement of the Beirut River Valley Biosphere Reserve by the Ministry of Environment. More than a formal step, the recognition reflects a long-standing vision grounded in community stewardship, ecological connectivity, and scientific research.
The proposed biosphere reserve represents a fully integrated hydrological system extending from mountain ridges to the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing:
- 22,135 hectares
- 67 towns and villages
- Core protected areas
- Sustainable buffer zones
- Transition areas supporting livelihoods and development
The initiative has also received official backing from the Union of High Metn Municipalities, reinforcing the shared responsibility among local communities, national institutions, and international partners.
The Hima Approach, Local Roots, Global Impact
Today, SPNL’s Hima network includes 47 sites across Lebanon, spanning wetlands, forests, rivers, and coastal ecosystems. Rooted in an ancient, community-based conservation model, the Hima approach continues to evolve as a modern framework for sustainable environmental governance.
Editor-in-Chief Raghida Haddad highlights the growing international recognition of Hima, notably during the IUCN World Conservation Congress, where global leaders and policymakers were introduced to this uniquely Arab system with global relevance.
SPNL is also actively contributing to international environmental dialogue, including upcoming participation in the Global Environment Facility Assembly in Samarkand, where the Hima model will be further showcased.
In parallel, UNESCO has encouraged countries across the Levant to adopt the Hima approach in developing biosphere reserves and geoparks, reinforcing its potential as a scalable model for conservation.
Exclusive Global Perspectives
A highlight of this issue is an exclusive interview with Dr. Grethel Aguilar, Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, titled:
“When Nature Recovers, We Thrive: Leading IUCN with Trust, Science, and Solidarity.”
The interview offers insight into global environmental leadership and the importance of collective action in addressing biodiversity loss and climate challenges.
Rich and Diverse Content
The seventh issue of Al Hima magazine features a wide range of articles, interviews, and reports, including:
- The Beirut River Valley as a model biosphere reserve
- Efforts toward establishing Lebanon’s first natural park
- Global conservation insights from leading experts
- Cultural and ecological connections through World Heritage sites
- Field stories from Hima sites and community initiatives
- Innovations such as Smart Hima and urban forestry models
The publication also reflects SPNL’s ongoing work despite challenging regional circumstances, emphasizing resilience, collaboration, and hope.
A Platform for Change
Through Al Hima magazine, SPNL continues to provide a platform that bridges local action and global dialogue, showcasing Lebanon’s ecological richness while advocating for sustainable development and environmental protection.
The release of this issue reinforces SPNL’s mission to expand the Hima model as a cornerstone of conservation policy and practice, in Lebanon and beyond.
