The Green Plan project, implemented by the ILO through the EIIP in Lebanon in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture through the Green Plan Administration, funded by the German Government through the KfW Development Bank, has been a catalyst for positive change.
The project generates green jobs through environmentally friendly works that contribute to environmental preservation, land reclamation, and improved agricultural and economic productivity. These activities specifically target crucial agricultural infrastructure on private farmlands, such as terracing, retaining walls, irrigation networks, and water tanks. By supporting local farmers who have been impacted by the economic crisis, the project aims to reclaim unproductive land and increase yields, thereby supporting the agro-food supply chain. Moreover, this initiative created short-term job opportunities for vulnerable individuals, enabling them to improve their livelihoods.
In addition to its focus on inclusive employment, the Green Plan project extends its support to vulnerable farmers across Lebanon. By actively promoting the employment of women and persons with disabilities, the project empowers marginalized groups and enhances their economic well-being. With direct assistance provided to 740 farmers, phase I of the project enabled them to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, leading to increased productivity and improved livelihoods. Additionally, the project has provided valuable employment opportunities for 2,459 workers, resulting in the generation of 1,627 jobs in total. The project is currently in its second phase, aiming to construct and rehabilitate the infrastructure of more than 750 farms across Lebanon, including Mount Lebanon, Akkar, North, South, Nabatiyeh, and Bekaa.
The scope of work includes constructing concrete water reservoirs of different capacities, building dry stone retaining walls with cyclopean concrete footings, reclaiming land in diverse site conditions, and creating fencing and rockery walls using locally available stones. Through this comprehensive approach, the Green Plan project not only strengthened the agricultural sector but also fostered environmental stewardship by promoting sustainable farming methods and preserving natural resources.
Adopting the EIIP approach, the Green Plan project was implemented through the Local Resources Based Technology approach. By employing local resources and expertise, the project ensured efficient and sustainable infrastructure development. This approach not only minimized reliance on external resources but also promoted the use of environmentally friendly materials. By incorporating local knowledge and skills, the project contributed to a positive spill over effect in the community at different levels.
The video covering the project aspects is below:
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