In response to Lebanon’s dire situation, since the start of the Israeli aggression on Lebanon, AUB’s Environment and Sustainable Development Unit (ESDU) has initiated both immediate relief efforts and sustainable long-term initiatives.
Additionally, ESDU has joined AUB’s Environmental and Urban Impact Task Force to collaborate on a post-war rebuilding strategy focused on agricultural sectors. This strategy prioritizes food security, rural livelihood restoration, and sustainable rebuilding practices, reflecting ESDU’s commitment to fostering strength in Lebanon’s rural landscape.
In this interview, we outline the role of ESDU in providing relief during the war, while also highlighting the unit’s key actions and recommendations for the future.
“Keepers of the Land”: Campaign to Support Vulnerable Communities
ESDU swiftly mobilized under the “Keepers of the Land” campaign, urgently calling for donations to respond to the massive wave of internal displacement.
Keepers of the Land is an ESDU initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable communities, building capacities, and improving livelihoods. Additionally, it supports the education of students majoring in agricultural and food sciences by providing awards to undergraduate students and fellowships to graduate students.
By means of the generous support of the AREC 78 class and contributions from abroad, the unit was able to secure essential hygiene kits. These kits provided critical relief to the AREC community, many of whom are now being hosted at the AREC campus due to the devastation in their nearby hometowns.
“Food Heritage Foundation” – The Road to Communal Cooking
Furthermore, ESDU staff quickly mobilized to support its sister NGO, the Food Heritage Foundation (FHF). Established by the ESDU in 2013 the Food Heritage Foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks to empower the livelihoods of Lebanese producers through several initiatives.
“The mission of FHF is to preserve traditional Lebanese culinary knowledge while empowering the livelihoods of small local producers by promoting home-cooked meals and local ingredients,” says Maha El Solh, Marketing & Partnership Coordinator at ESDU.
The team volunteered to ensure the daily distribution of hot meals to displaced individuals through FHF’s “Akletna Community Kitchen“. Over 8,000 meals have been distributed, with the support of partners such as “Souk El Balad”.
Launching of a Two-Phase Food Security Strategy
The ESDU is currently developing a two-phase food security strategy to advise on the best course of action post-crisis. The first phase involves GIS (Geographical Information System) mapping to identify available resources in the country. Furthermore, it aims to assess the quality of soil and water, particularly by studying the impact of phosphorus bombings in the South.
The second phase of the strategy includes a desk review of published research, as well as consultations with local farmers to understand how agricultural practices are evolving in response to the war. “This data will help create a detailed picture of the current food security situation and guide future recommendations,” explains Christelle Bou Harb, ESDU’s Executive Officer and Renewable Energy Engineer.
Identifying Solutions for Recovery
Drawing on its expertise in food systems, the ESDU aims to develop recommendations for long-term recovery. Key strategies include identifying crops that have the potential to thrive despite soil pollution, as well as investing in agricultural solutions that mitigate the negative effects of land degradation.
“While the land has been severely impacted, there is still hope for recovery,” states Diana Marroush, ESDU’s Liaison Officer. “We are working on ways to revive damaged agricultural systems. While the timeline remains uncertain, our main goal is to research ways to restore local food production.”
Collaboration and Inclusive Approach
Collaboration plays an important role in their strategy and rebuilding efforts, as the ESDU works closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Environment. They also engage with local municipalities to ensure the community’s perspectives are incorporated into recovery plans. “This is to ensure that relief efforts are inclusive and aligned with the national strategy, as well as local needs,” explains Christelle.
This collaborative structure fosters learning and ensures that the organization’s approach remains effective and responsive to local needs.
Tala Nassif
Tala Nassif holds a BA in Economics from the American University of Beirut and an MSc in Development Studies – Labour, Activism, and Global Commodity Chains – from SOAS University of London. Specialized in international development and economic empowerment, Tala currently serves as a Senior Research Assistant at the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship at AUB.