Beirut, January 29, 2025 – The American University of Beirut (AUB) hosted the third BONEX workshop, bringing together 21 key stakeholders to explore solutions for enhancing the feasibility of a solar-powered hydroponics unit in Lebanon.
The workshop opened with a welcome note from the Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, followed by remarks from the Chairman of the Department of Agriculture. Dr. Walid El Kayal, the project leader, then provided a summary of the project’s progress and key results to date.
A guided tour of AUB’s hydroponics unit followed, led by Dr. Walid El Kayal along with engineers Zein Kobeissi and Rami Abou Khalil, the project’s two technical engineers. The interactive workshop, facilitated by Joya Baradii, engaged participants in discussions and exercises aimed at identifying strategies to support and implement this sustainable agricultural innovation.
Key recommendations included regulating product prices, offering incentives to farmers, attracting investment, integrating hydroponics into national agricultural policies, and engaging schools to raise awareness. Stakeholders also identified essential roles such as engineers, suppliers, donors, and NGOs in ensuring the project’s success.
The BONEX project continues to advance the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus, driving sustainable solutions for Lebanon’s agricultural sector.
