General Objective
The Fitoambient project arises from a new culture of peace developed by CRELP FVG – the Regional Committee of Friuli Venezia Giulia Local Authorities for Peace and Human Rights – and its operational arm, ACD – Decentralized Cooperation Agency. The project aims to enhance international cooperation activities of Italian local authorities by offering advanced, participatory methodologies to implement the values of Decentralized Cooperation.

Decentralized Cooperation Approach
This model involves structured development cooperation between local authorities (Regions, Provinces, Municipalities) and civil society organizations (universities, unions, SMEs, research institutes, NGOs) in developed and developing countries. These actors jointly design and implement local development projects. Key principles include:

• Mobilizing people based on their needs and priorities;

• Strengthening civil society’s role in development;

• Promoting equitable, sustainable development through participatory processes.

Pilot Action in Lebanon
In Lebanon, ACD implemented a pilot phytodepuration plant at the outlet of a trout pond near the Assi River (Hermel, Bekaa Governorate). Phytodepuration (constructed wetlands) is a low-tech, low-maintenance ecological method for treating organic pollution. This system replicates natural ecosystems, providing effective wastewater treatment with minimal environmental disruption—particularly suited to fragile contexts like Lebanon’s.

Capacity Building and Awareness
The project provided training for local technicians, empowering them to replicate the system across other sites. In parallel, social education campaigns raised civil society’s awareness of environmental protection and their responsibility in maintaining water quality.

Knowledge Exchange
This initiative also leveraged Italian expertise, particularly from Friuli Venezia Giulia and the town of Gorizia, where Italy’s first phytodepuration plant was built. The project fostered meaningful interchange between Italian and Lebanese communities, demonstrating the strength of Decentralized Cooperation in achieving both technical and cultural outcomes.

Tab Content