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Beirut — UNESCO is seeking to launch a new regional initiative aimed at strengthening conservation frameworks and sustainable development models in the Levant, according to a statement by Nazar Mohamed Hassan to HimaEcoMedia.

Dr. Hassan, Senior Science & Technology Regional Advisor at the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Sciences in the Arab States, said the organization is preparing to launch the Levant Himas, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves Accelerator 2026 Initiative, which is designed to proactively position the Levant subregion for implementing the UNESCO Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan.

The initiative will be managed by the UNESCO Beirut Office and will serve as a strategic framework to accelerate the fortification of the Hima model and its associated successful experience in the region.

According to Dr. Hassan, the program aims to further enhance the quality and quantity of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves through a “More BRs and Better BRs” approach, strengthening conservation outcomes while promoting sustainable development.

The initiative also seeks to implement and expand the adoption of the Multi‑Internationally Designated Areas (MIDAS) approach, which is considered a cost-effective model to promote conservation and sustainable development by increasing the regional number of UNESCO Global Geoparks.

Dr. Hassan noted that, together with the Hima approach, these integrated mechanisms will help empower targeted communities to manage natural resources responsibly while preserving their cultural and social values.

The proposed initiative reflects UNESCO’s broader efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and support integrated approaches that connect conservation, community engagement, and sustainable development across the Levant.