The Mayor of Baisour, Nadim Anis Malaeb, has addressed a heartfelt letter of gratitude to the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), recognizing their exceptional efforts in promoting community and environmental well-being. The letter, directed through SPNL’s Hima Trails Manager, Hamadeh Malaeb, highlighted the organization’s generous in-kind donation of public benches, which have been installed along the Hima Trails in the Raddar region of Baisour. These installations contribute significantly to the development of recreational spaces in the community while fostering environmental awareness.
Mayor Malaeb commended SPNL for their commitment to responsibility and generosity, emphasizing the association’s pivotal role in advancing social, developmental, and environmental initiatives in the town of Baisour. This collaboration demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in creating sustainable solutions for local communities.
Adding to the recognition, SPNL’s General Director, Assad Serhal, praised the municipality of Baisour for their progressive vision. “Baisour is a very positive municipality and a model Hima. Much gratitude goes to Hamadeh Malaeb for his daily efforts in providing visibility and concrete actions on behalf of SPNL,” said Serhal. “These efforts not only enhance Baisour but also extend to new Hima initiatives and trails across Mount Lebanon, connecting to the valleys of the Shouf. Through the EU-funded BioConnect project, we are able to link Hima farms, communal forests, and gardens, further supporting regional conservation and sustainable development.”
Hima Baisour: A Beacon of Conservation and Community Engagement
Hima Baisour stands as a testament to SPNL’s dedication to reviving the ancient Hima concept, a community-based approach to natural resource management that has been integral to the region for centuries. Located in the picturesque Mount Lebanon range, Hima Baisour is part of the larger Hima program initiated by SPNL, which aims to protect biodiversity, support sustainable livelihoods, and engage local communities in conservation efforts.
Through SPNL’s Droub Al Hima program, a network of eco-trails is being developed across Lebanon, including the trails in Baisour. These trails not only provide opportunities for ecotourism but also serve as platforms for environmental education, connecting visitors and locals alike to the rich cultural and natural heritage of the area. The installation of public benches along the trails enhances the visitor experience, encouraging more people to explore and appreciate the beauty of Hima Baisour.
A Broader Vision for Conservation and Development
SPNL’s work in Baisour is part of its broader mission to connect communities through conservation. The EU BioConnect project has been instrumental in linking various Hima sites, including communal forests, Hima farms, and gardens, to promote sustainable land use and biodiversity preservation. Additionally, SPNL’s Hima Centers in the Beqaa and Mount Lebanon regions continue to serve as hubs for environmental education and sustainable development.
A Call to Action
The collaboration between the Municipality of Baisour and SPNL exemplifies how local leadership and non-governmental organizations can join forces to achieve meaningful progress. SPNL remains committed to working closely with municipalities, partners, and stakeholders to promote sustainable development and environmental stewardship across Lebanon.
About SPNL
The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to conserving nature, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable practices through community engagement. By reviving the Hima approach, SPNL bridges cultural heritage with modern conservation practices, creating a harmonious balance between people and nature.
