EcoHub Launch

Ahla Fawda, a prominent non-profit organization, is delighted to announce the launch of EcoHub, a transformative initiative aimed at fostering environmental solutions, educational activities, and community engagement. With the generous support of various partners, including the Ghandour family, Lebanon Civic Action Accelerator Program (LEB-CAAP) funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), AUB Neighborhood Initiative, Refuse, We Deserve Better, Catalytic Action, Urban Hive, and LAU Faculty of Architecture and Design, Ahla Fawda’s EcoHub represents the culmination of their decade-long commitment to humanitarian, environmental, cultural, and community-building endeavors.

Situated strategically in Hamra, the EcoHub is a pioneering center that consolidates eco-awareness by bringing together environmental services and educational activities under one roof. It serves as a model project that Ahla Fawda intends to replicate in other areas, addressing Lebanon’s pressing waste problem. The EcoHub offers a range of free and accessible services, featuring several key components:

Waste Collection Point: In collaboration with the social enterprise ReFuse, the EcoHub provides a fully operational waste collection point accessible to the public.

Sustainable Garden: Urban Hive and the neighborhood initiative have established a sustainable garden within the EcoHub premises, aiming to restore urban ecosystems and enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal.

Designated Playground: Catalytic Action has developed a green park within the EcoHub, specifically designed for children and families to enjoy.

Adult and Youth Education Center: Operated by We Deserve Better, the EcoHub houses an education center that offers valuable learning opportunities for both adults and youth.

Community Space: Ahla Fawda operates a community space within the EcoHub, providing workshops, co-working areas, meeting rooms, and a platform for the creation and sale of upcycled products, fostering collaboration and creativity among community members.

Design, Art, and Crafts Market: In partnership with LAU Faculty of Architecture and Design, the EcoHub hosts a weekly market to support design students and aspiring talents.

Imane Assaf, the founder and president of Ahla Fawda, expressed her vision for the EcoHub, stating, “Our aim is to continue building processes and infrastructure that catalyze communities, bringing together community members, local governments, and students to make a broader impact. We strive to cultivate a responsible, conscientious, and engaged population, working towards a sustainable, healthy, and green environment for all.”

The EcoHub launch event provided an opportunity for guests to reflect on Ahla Fawda’s journey, reminisce about memorable moments, witness the inauguration of the EcoHub, and gain insight into Ahla Fawda’s future plans. Additionally, attendees were treated to a captivating live music performance by Joy Fayad and the Band.

Through the EcoHub, Ahla Fawda aims to empower the community through regular activities, raise eco-awareness, and lead the way towards a more sustainable future. By engaging the community and fostering creativity, Ahla Fawda endeavors to make a significant impact in preserving the planet.