Duration: 11 months (April 2024 – February 2025)
In the heart of Lebanon, where the rugged beauty of Mount Hermon stands as a testament to the region’s rich natural heritage, a new initiative is taking root. The “Environment for Life” organization has embarked on a transformative journey to promote sustainable agricultural practices in the villages surrounding the newly designated Protected Area (PA) of Mount Hermon. With the support of a US$17,000 grant from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), this initiative aims to harmonize agriculture with conservation efforts, ensuring a thriving environment for both local farmers and biodiversity.
A Landscape of Riches and Challenges
Mount Hermon, part of the Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot, is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. However, traditional land-use practices, while essential to cultural heritage, often face the pressures of modern agricultural demands. Unsustainable farming methods, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and land degradation threaten both livelihoods and the region’s ecological balance.
Recognizing this, Environment for Life has stepped in to bridge the gap between agriculture and conservation, guiding farmers toward sustainable practices that align with biodiversity preservation.
Empowering Farmers, Protecting Nature
The initiative is centered around promoting eco-friendly fertilizers and agricultural techniques that enhance soil health while minimizing environmental impact. Through a series of awareness campaigns and training sessions, farmers and decision-makers in surrounding villages are introduced to innovative yet practical approaches that maintain productivity without harming the ecosystem.
Local farmer Ahmed Khalil, a participant in the project, shares his experience: “I used to rely heavily on chemical fertilizers, not knowing their long-term impact. With the training I received, I’ve started using organic alternatives that keep my crops healthy and my land fertile for future generations.”
Building Capacity for a Lasting Impact
Beyond supporting farmers, the initiative focuses on strengthening the management of the Mount Hermon PA itself. The PA’s rangers, who serve as stewards of this critical habitat, are receiving specialized training to enhance their ability to monitor and protect biodiversity. Moreover, efforts are underway to refine the PA’s management plan, ensuring that conservation strategies are integrated with sustainable land-use practices.
Hassan Darwish, a local ranger, emphasizes the importance of this effort: “With better training and resources, we can safeguard this land more effectively. It’s about preserving Mount Hermon not just for today, but for generations to come.”
A Vision for the Future
This initiative is more than just a short-term intervention; it represents a shift in mindset and practice. By equipping farmers, decision-makers, and PA management with the tools and knowledge they need, Environment for Life is fostering a model of coexistence where agriculture and conservation thrive together.
As the project progresses toward its completion in February 2025, its impact will resonate beyond Mount Hermon, serving as an example for other regions striving to balance livelihood needs with environmental responsibility. With continued collaboration and commitment, the seeds of sustainability planted today will grow into a resilient and prosperous future for Lebanon’s natural and agricultural landscapes alike.
