The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), in collaboration with local community members, successfully organized an environmental cleanup campaign at the Hima Shemlane Biblical Garden, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Lebanon’s natural and cultural heritage while promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement.
The initiative brought together volunteers of all ages who worked collectively to remove litter and waste from the garden and its surrounding areas, helping to preserve the beauty and ecological integrity of one of Lebanon’s unique environmental and cultural landmarks. The campaign aimed to enhance the site’s environmental value, improve visitors’ experience, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting public green spaces.
The Hima Shemlane Biblical Garden serves as a living repository of plant species mentioned in the Holy Bible and represents an important educational, ecological, and cultural destination. Located within the Hima of Shemlane, the garden contributes to biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and the preservation of Lebanon’s rich natural heritage.
Mr. Hamada Malaeb, Manager of Doroub Al-Hima at SPNL, emphasized that protecting nature requires collective responsibility and active community participation. He noted that environmental cleanup initiatives not only improve the condition of natural sites but also strengthen the relationship between people and the landscapes they cherish.
“The Hima Shemlane Biblical Garden is a unique space where nature, culture, and spirituality meet. Through initiatives such as this cleanup campaign, we encourage communities to take ownership of their natural heritage and contribute directly to its protection for future generations,” Malaeb said.
The campaign also provided an opportunity to promote environmental awareness among participants and visitors, highlighting the harmful impacts of waste on ecosystems and the importance of responsible environmental practices.
SPNL expressed its appreciation to all volunteers, partners, and supporters whose dedication contributed to the success of the initiative. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Hima approach as a community-led model for conservation and sustainable resource management across Lebanon.
This cleanup campaign forms part of SPNL’s ongoing efforts to strengthen environmental stewardship, support local conservation initiatives, and ensure that Lebanon’s natural and cultural treasures remain protected and accessible for generations to come.
