SwitchMed Programme
Funded by the European Union, the SwitchMed programme supports the development of policies and practices that encourage a switch to Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) in the Southern Mediterranean region and enables mainstreaming of the Circular Economy concept. UNEP leads and implements the component that seeks to create an enabling policy environment.
Phase I of the SwitchMed project lasted from 2013 - 2018 during which the SCP - National Action Plans (SCP-NAP, SDG 12.1) of 8 countries were drafted, in addition to providing advisory services and technical support through policy development, demonstration activities and networking and communication.
As a follow up, phase II (2019 - 2024) of the SwitchMed project builds on the success stories of phase I, with a concrete component on the Blue Economy being implemented in the countries.
Ministry of Environment of Lebanon
Lebanon’s Ministry of Environment (MoE) marked its inception 1981, with roots tracing back to as early as 1920 legislations addressing environmental concerns. This includes protecting fish stocks, preventing the use of explosives and poison in fishing, preservation of water resources and coastal zones, protecting public property, preventing water and land pollution.
In 1993, Law 216/93 formally founded the MoE. Amendments such as Law 667/97 in 1997 and Law 690 in 2005 followed to underscore the growing importance of environmental issues both at a national and global level.
The Environmental Protection Act, Law 444 of 2002 established fundamental principles for environmental protection and management, laying the groundwork for preservation and conservation, assessing project impacts, defining responsibilities, and penalties for environmental violations.
National Implementing Partner: Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development
The Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development is a Lebanese non-governmental organization incepted in 1979. Member of ECOSOC with special status, it aims to achieve sustainable human development at the regional, national and local levels through investing in the human capital. Through its diverse set of programs, the organization localizes, delivers and mainstreams advanced educational, participatory and developmental models aiming to transform education, promote active citizenship, and build urban resilience.
The Sustainability and Climate Action Program at the Hariri Foundation is dedicated to driving sustainable transitions through environmental thinking, action, and nudging, with focus areas including i) environmental governance, ii) climate action, and iii) economy/lifestyle behaviors. The program features a designated, green Outreach and Leadership Academy (OLA), specialized in environmental research, education, and urban experimentation.
The Hariri Foundation seeks to strengthen partnerships between the public, private and civic sectors through establishing and supporting sectoral networks and communities of practice. Through international, national, and local partnerships and a diverse set of engagement programs, the organization strives to facilitate evidence-based policy addressing global development transformations and scientific frameworks.