Nassim Al Baher

Nassim Al Baher is a three-year initiative by Fair Trade Lebanon, funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and in partnership with Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Lebanese Developers, and Tabitha. It aims to preserve marine ecosystems and promote sustainable practices for a sustainable and resilient economic development in Lebanon.

The project mainly supports fishing cooperatives, fishermen, women, and youth along Lebanon’s northern coast, from Okaibe to Abdeh. More than 900 individuals are expected to benefit directly, with a broader positive impact on the surrounding coastal communities.

The project focuses on the following: research and studies, capacity building, equipment provision, awareness raising, income generation, tourism and sustainability, and exposure and market access.

Environmental degradation, overfishing, plastic pollution, and climate threats are eroding marine ecosystems and jeopardizing the livelihoods of fishing communities. Fishing communities are growing more vulnerable, struggling with declining fish stocks, reduced incomes and limited opportunities. The project tackles these challenges by promoting sustainable fishing, responsible tourism, and waste reduction, while creating new income opportunities for coastal communities.

The project provides fishermen with eco-friendly equipment and promotes sustainable fishing practices. It emphasizes awareness-raising, capacity building, and the adoption of sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term preservation of marine ecosystems along Lebanon’s northern coast.

Long-term benefits include protecting marine and coastal ecosystems against natural threats and climate change, boosting economic stability for fishermen and coastal communities, as well as inspiring local coastal population to take action against pollution. The project also opens new income opportunities for women and youth in the North of Lebanon, nurturing a resilient and thriving community.

Sustainability is fostered by engaging local communities, raising awareness, capacity building, and the adoption of sustainable practices to safeguard marine ecosystems and disseminate responsible tourism. Local coastal communities will be trained to manage and protect their resources, ensuring that the benefits endure long after the project’s completion.

This project will collaborate with local stakeholders to co-create sustainable tourism routes that highlight cultural and natural heritage while protecting coastal and marine ecosystems. Once finalized and tested, the circuits will be guided by trained youth and promoted through dedicated campaigns. You can then experience responsible tourism activities that benefit local communities and the environment.

We welcome your interest in getting involved. Whether you’d like to support awareness activities, collaborate on sustainable initiatives, or simply learn more, you can reach out to Joseph Nakhle, the Project Manager, at j.nakhle@fairtradelebanon.org. We’d be happy to hear from you!