We investigated the socioeconomic impact of climate change on two rural communities in Lebanon. Working alongside the U.S. Agency for International Development, the U.S. Forest Service, International Programs and the Lebanon Reforestation Initiative, our efforts were designed to help residents and farmers mitigate erosion intensified by climate change. The two areas focused on, El Mhaidthe and Bkassine, are situated in valleys prone to considerable soil erosion. Erosion can have damaging effects on the nuts and herbs which grow on the hillsides and which local communities rely on for income and sustenance. Climate change intensifies this damaging erosion.
By surveying community members it was determined that long-term reforestation was supported in both communities as a climate change mitigation method. Regional partners are now being worked with to reintroduce local plant species to help stabilize soils and reduce erosion.
