Between 11 and 14 November, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) carried out an impactful series of awareness sessions as part of the Al Murunah Project, engaging 200 couples from the communities of Ras Baalbek, Qaa, Fekha, and Arsal. Over four days, SPNL’s team delivered a comprehensive program aimed at deepening community understanding of the Hima approach, the project’s core vision, and the transformative potential of Nature-based Solutions (NbS).
Connecting Communities to the Hima Approach
Participants were introduced to the philosophy and practice of the Hima model—SPNL’s flagship community-based conservation approach rooted in stewardship, shared responsibility, and sustainable natural resource management. Through presentations and group exchanges, attendees explored how the Hima principles align with the social and ecological realities of their own regions.
The sessions also shed light on the broader framework of the Al Murunah Project, which promotes resilience, adaptive capacities, and sustainable livelihoods across vulnerable communities in the northern Bekaa.
Preparing Households for the Project’s Final Economic Intervention
One of the most anticipated aspects of the program was the briefing on the upcoming economic intervention scheduled for the final phase of the extended Al Murunah+ project. SPNL emphasized its commitment to ensuring that participating households are well-informed and ready to benefit from the support mechanisms that will soon be introduced.
Couples expressed significant enthusiasm for this component, noting the importance of economic initiatives that reinforce environmental protection and community well-being. Many highlighted how integrated economic–environmental programs can create sustainable opportunities that respond to local needs while preserving natural resources.
Positive Feedback and Strong Community Engagement
Across all four communities, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Participants showed high levels of engagement, appreciation for the clarity of information provided, and genuine encouragement for the project’s continued implementation. Their responses reflected a strong desire for programs that combine environmental stewardship with practical economic benefits—an approach that lies at the heart of Al Murunah.
A Step Forward for Resilience and Sustainable Development
By reaching 200 couples in just four days, SPNL reaffirmed the importance of community-centered conservation and inclusive environmental education. The awareness sessions laid essential groundwork for the upcoming project activities, strengthening trust, understanding, and collaboration between SPNL and the communities of Ras Baalbek, Qaa, Fekha, and Arsal.
As the Al Murunah+ project enters its final phase, these communities are now better equipped, more informed, and more prepared to embrace the opportunities ahead—championing a future where environmental sustainability and community resilience go hand in hand.
