Lebanon is home to ecosystems of great value, today severely challenged by the climate crisis and human activities. Within the Shouf Biosphere Reserve lies the Aammiq Ramsar site: an essential water resource and a biodiversity hotspot. Yet its balance is increasingly fragile, threatened by water stress, soil degradation, and habitat loss. The CARE project addresses these challenges at their root, strengthening ecosystem resilience and building sustainable solutions for the communities that depend on them.
In the agricultural and forested areas of West Beqaa, we promote practices that improve soil fertility, reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, optimize water use, and limit emissions. This also includes replacing diesel-powered irrigation systems with solutions powered by solar energy.
The project also implements concrete restoration actions: in wetlands, we expand water storage areas such as ponds and basins, while in degraded forest areas we plant native species to restore ecological value to the land.
Monitoring the health of soil, biodiversity, and water resources is key to guide effective decisions. For this reason, our environmental experts are regularly in the field, collecting data and developing technical protocols—indispensable tools for the effective management of natural resources.
To spread innovative approaches, we create bridges between Lebanon and Italy. Successful experiences from the agricultural and research sectors, such as those of the Consorzio Chianti Classico, are shared with Lebanese farmers, technicians, and administrators through theoretical and practical training programmes. In addition, financial education activities for small producers and agricultural enterprises aim to facilitate access to credit and promote responsible investments.
Schools and local communities are also active participants in the project. Through environmental education programmes and awareness-raising initiatives, we help foster a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting natural resources, because change begins with people.