SPNL utilizes innovative mapping tools to advance conservation initiatives across Lebanon

The full SPNL 2024 Annual Report is available for download at this link.

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) has introduced dynamic mapping tools to enhance its conservation projects, publications, and outreach efforts. Developed by SPNL’s expert team, these interactive maps have become integral to key reports, including the SPNL Annual Report, Hima Magazine, and SPNL’s official website.

According to Assad Serhal, SPNL’s General Director, these mapping tools will play a crucial role in guiding SPNL’s conservation efforts and shaping new projects in collaboration with international environmental organizations, such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), BirdLife International, SRT, HWF, and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF).

“The integration of these innovative maps marks a turning point in how we visualize, communicate, and implement our conservation strategies,” said Assad Serhal.
“They provide us with a powerful tool to analyze environmental data, identify high-priority areas, and guide the development of sustainable conservation projects. Through these maps, we aim to deepen our understanding of biodiversity needs in Lebanon, particularly in critical regions like Mount Lebanon and Byblos, while strengthening our engagement with communities, schools, and other key stakeholders.”

Expanding conservation efforts with interactive and statistical mapping

SPNL’s mapping initiative extends beyond geographic data. These interactive tools:

Visualize Lebanon’s natural landscapes and biodiversity hotspots
Provide statistical insights on SPNL’s reach and impact
Enhance resource allocation to high-priority conservation areas
Improve strategic planning for sustainable development

By focusing on key conservation zones such as Mount Lebanon and Byblos, SPNL ensures that its conservation efforts remain data-driven and responsive to environmental changes and local community needs.

A targeted approach to conservation and community engagement

SPNL’s mapping tools allow for real-time data analysis, helping to:

  • Identify potential conservation sites
  • Track biodiversity changes and threats
  • Optimize conservation strategies based on updated insights

Additionally, these maps are not limited to environmental data—they also track SPNL’s educational and outreach initiatives, displaying:

📍 The number of schools and students engaged in SPNL programs
📍 The extent of community participation in conservation efforts
📍 The impact of SPNL’s awareness campaigns across Lebanon

By integrating community engagement data, SPNL’s interactive maps provide transparency and accessibility, allowing schools, local municipalities, and stakeholders to track their contributions to conservation efforts.

Strengthening Lebanon’s conservation movement through technology

SPNL believes that leveraging innovative mapping tools will enhance its ability to:

🔹 Expand educational outreach and engage more students in conservation
🔹 Strengthen community involvement by increasing awareness and participation
🔹 Advance conservation strategies that are adaptive, inclusive, and sustainable

With these advancements, SPNL is paving the way for a new era of conservation in Lebanon, where science, technology, and community engagement come together to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable development.

Al Hima Magazine 5th Issue

This edition of Al Hima magazine weaves together inspiring stories of nature conservation and community resilience, highlighting how Lebanon is being stitched back to life—one Hima at a time. The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) continues its mission to preserve the country’s natural heritage by empowering local communities. A cornerstone of this effort is the BioConnect project, funded by the European Union, which has achieved three national firsts: Lebanon’s first natural park (Upper Matn), first geological park (Shouf-Jezzine), and first endowment Hima (Btekhnay).

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