The American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with IRIDRA, project partners, recently hosted a series of events and workshops aimed at promoting nature-based solutions (NBSs) for sustainable water management (SWM). Two notable events were the School Camps on Green Wall Applications for greywater reuse and the two-day Technical Training on Nature-Based Solutions for Non-Conventional Water (NCW) treatment.

The School Camps, held on 3-4 April, brought together a diverse group of over 20 professionals and more than 20 university students to explore innovative approaches to greywater treatment. With the support of experts from IRIDRA, including Eng. Nicolas Martinuzzi, Eng. Riccardo Bresciani and Arch. Barbara Bonadies, the participants were given lectures on NBSs for greywater treatment and the technology used at the NAWAMED pilot plant in Beirut, a student dormitory at AUB. The highlight of the camps was a visit to AUB's Green Wall pilot project, which provided practical insights into the design and construction phases of living green walls and green façades.

These School Camps provided a unique platform for participants to gain technical knowledge and hands-on experience in NBSs and SWM practices, with a specific focus on grey water reuse.

Furthermore, on 26 and 27 April, AUB and IRIDRA organised a comprehensive two-day technical training workshop focusing on NBSs for the treatment of NCW. Over 30 professionals attended the event, which featured a training programme delivered by esteemed experts such as Dr. Yaser Abunnasr, Dr. Nadim Farajalla, Dr. Fabio Masi and Eng. Anacleto Rizzo.  The training programme consisted of four modules covering various topics such as NCW challenges and solutions in Lebanon, overview of NBSs for NCW treatment, technical designs of constructed wetlands and living green walls, and NBS conception. The hands-on training session on NBS design was a particular highlight of the workshop, allowing participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge. The event also included case study presentations from the working groups, stimulating discussions and a technical visit to the USAID Constructed Wetland in Roum, Jezzine. 

This visit provided valuable insights into the practical implementation of nature-based solutions, bridging the gap between theory and application. By combining these two initiatives, AUB and IRIDRA successfully fostered a collaborative environment that promotes SWM practices. The events not only equipped participants with technical knowledge and practical experience, but also facilitated networking opportunities among professionals and practitioners working towards a more sustainable future.

These efforts underscore AUB and IRIDRA's commitment to using NBSs to address water management challenges, and highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in achieving sustainable and resilient communities.