The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in Lebanon, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, recently held a technical workshop in Saida Municipality as part of the project ”Promoting Sustainable Fisheries Resources Management and Climate Resilience in Lebanon”.
Funded by the Government of Norway and implemented by FAO in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, the project aims to strengthen the resilience of Lebanon’s fisheries value chain, enhance climate adaptation, and support national food security.
According to the FAO, the workshop marked a significant milestone in the project’s implementation by bringing together key stakeholders from the government, scientific institutions, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, fisher cooperatives and local communities, including women-led initiatives
The event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and technical exchange on strategies to reduce marine litter, particularly focusing on the proper disposal and recycling of fishing nets.
Participants discussed various aspects of the challenge in Lebanon, including the current environmental impact, ongoing national initiatives, and practical solutions for recycling and repurposing fishing gear.
The workshop encouraged the development of cooperative-led practices to reduce marine litter. It also emphasised the vital role of fisher communities, social organisations, and private sector actors in promoting sustainable and responsible marine resource management.
In line with FAO’s commitment to gender equality and social inclusion, the event highlighted the contributions of women in the fisheries sector. Women-led initiatives were featured as part of the discussions, providing an opportunity to hear directly from women working across the value chain, from fish net recycling and net repair to local advocacy.
By raising awareness strengthening grassroots engagement, and fostering joint ownership of solutions, the project aims to build stronger, climate-resilient coastal communities while protecting Lebanon’s marine environment and ensuring that the voices and needs of both women and men are equally represented in the transition to sustainable fisheries.
