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<August Theme Report> public awareness and education about the environment

by Tarek Harb | 16-08-2023 20:21


. Introduction: Lebanon, a country known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, has been taking significant steps to promote public awareness and education about environmental issues. In recent years, increasing concerns about pollution, climate change, and resource depletion have prompted the government and various stakeholders to collaborate on fostering environmental consciousness among the population.

2. Legislative Framework for Environmental Education: Lebanon's commitment to environmental education is underpinned by its legislative framework. The 1996 Environmental Protection Law mandates the integration of environmental education into formal and informal education systems. Article 24 of the law specifically calls for the inclusion of environmental topics in curricula at all educational levels.

3. Government Initiatives: 3.1 National Environmental Strategy: The Lebanese government launched its National Environmental Strategy in 2012, outlining a comprehensive roadmap for environmental sustainability. One of the strategy's key components is the promotion of environmental awareness and education. This is achieved through collaboration between ministries, partnerships with educational institutions, and public campaigns.

3.2 Green Schools Program: Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Green Schools Program encourages educational institutions to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Participating schools engage in waste reduction, energy conservation, and curriculum integration related to environmental topics. This initiative not only raises awareness among students but also involves teachers and the wider community.

4. Non-Governmental Efforts: 4.1 Civil Society Organizations: Numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Lebanon are dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues. Organizations like "Lebanese Eco Movement" and "Greenpeace Lebanon" conduct workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to inform the public about pressing environmental challenges and solutions.

4.2 Environmental Awareness Campaigns: Public and private sector collaborations have led to impactful awareness campaigns. For instance, the "Clean Lebanon" campaign, supported by the Ministry of Environment, emphasizes waste management and responsible consumption. Such campaigns utilize social media, workshops, and community events to engage a wider audience.

5. Challenges and Future Recommendations: Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Limited resources, political instability, and economic difficulties have occasionally hindered the implementation of awareness programs. To enhance national efforts, it is recommended that the government allocate more resources for educational initiatives, strengthen partnerships between government agencies and NGOs, and establish a centralized platform for sharing educational resources.

6. Conclusion: Lebanon's pursuit of environmental awareness and education is evident through its legislative mandates, governmental initiatives, and the involvement of non-governmental stakeholders. The collaborative approach taken by the government and civil society organizations showcases a commitment to safeguarding Lebanon's natural heritage for future generations.


Tarek Harb Eco Generation Regional Ambassador to Lebanon