Dana, July 29 (Petra) – The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) has launched the Dana Orchards project at Dana Biosphere Reserve under the RES-MAB project, funded under the EU-backed Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA).

Talking at the launching ceremony, RSCN Director of Local Communities and Initiatives Hisham Duhisat said the project seeks to support local communities in Dana region in Tafilah Governorate and promote "sustainable" natural-resource management through the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach.

Duhisat added that the integrated approach would help communities in the Dana area address impacts of climate change.

In turn, Busaira District Governor Asaad Samasmeh highlighted the project’s role in supporting sustainable development in Tafilah 's Busaira District through environmental and community-focused interventions.

On feasiblity, RSCN Director of Protected Areas Amer Rfou noted the project’s field activities would promote "integrated" natural-resource management and nature-based solutions while protecting Dana Biosphere Reserve’s ecological value.

RSCN Director of Administration and Legal Affairs Sultan Hanafi underlined the importance of legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks in implementing environmental projects, sustaining their outcomes, and coordinating among partner organizations.

The RES-MAB seeks to strengthen the climate resilience of Mediterranean biosphere reserves by testing WEFE-based solutions at 7 pilot sites, exchanging expertise, developing sustainable business models, engaging the private sector, and supporting inclusive economic development and ecological resilience in local communities.

//Petra// AO