On the occasion of World Oceans Day, observed on 8 June 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) organized a special educational activity about bodies of water on Friday, June 13, 2025. The activity included an interactive PowerPoint presentation that introduced children to the concept of bodies of water and their different types, […]
On Friday, 30 May 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized a special interactive activity for children to celebrate the World Environment Day, which is observed annually on June 5. During the session, children learned about the concept of the environment, its living and nonliving components, its importance in our […]
In celebration of World Bee Day, which is observed annually on 20 May 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized a special children’s activity on Friday, 16 May 2025. The session focused on the important role bees play in our ecosystems. Children learned about the life cycle of bees, how […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University participated in the opening ceremony of the Munib Rashid Al-Masri Center for Palestinian Thought at Al Quds University on Monday, 12 May 2025. The invitation came from Mr. Munib Masri, a supporter of PIBS and its museum renovation project. During the discussion session that […]
On Thursday, 8 May 2025, Bethlehem University, represented by Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President, and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) participated in the Fourth Annual Convention of the Palestinian Student Scholarship Fund (PSSF) at Birzeit University. The event brought together university leaders, academics, and various stakeholders to explore the critical role […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University remains committed to promoting environmental awareness and fostering community engagement through a variety of educational and research initiatives. These activities aim to educate different age groups about the importance of conservation and sustainable practices in Palestine. On Friday, 9 May 2025, PIBS organized a […]
On Monday, 5 May 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University completed the preliminary site inspection for the renovation of the Palestine Museum of Natural History. The inspection brought together the Bethlehem University team, along with engineers, architects, and contractors, to assess progress and coordinate the next steps. With this […]
A team from the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability – Bethlehem University just concluded tours in Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon. The aim of the tour was to 1) visit protected areas and study management structure that allow us to conserve Palestinian areas and fauna and flora (project funded by National Geographic Society), 2) visit […]
On Monday, 28 April 2025, students from Bethlehem University’s Bachelor of Arts program in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage visited the Palestine Museum of Natural History as part of their Fauna and Flora course. Accompanied by their professor, Dr. Omar Dar Issa, the students explored the museum’s diverse exhibits, which showcase Palestine’s rich variety of plants […]
On Friday, 2 May 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) – Bethlehem University marked International Compost Awareness Week with a hands-on educational activity for children focused on composting and soil health. The session introduced children to the basics of composting, showing how everyday organic waste—such as fruit peels, vegetable scraps, and dry […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) – Bethlehem University participated in the 5th Mediterranean Plant Conservation Week, held in Cyprus, with a delegation that included Prof. Mazin Qumsiyeh, Jessie Chang, and botanist Banan Alshiekh. Throughout the event, PIBS made valuable contributions with three presentations – two by Prof. Mazin and one by Ms. […]
On Friday, 11 April 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) Bethlehem University held its weekly children’s activity, this time with a special Easter twist that celebrated the wonders of nature through the theme of eggs. Children explored the incredible variety of animals that lay eggs, including fish, frogs, birds, and reptiles. They learned […]
On Thursday, 10 April 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability-Bethlehem University (PIBS) continued its mobile educational exhibit tour, reaching communities across the Hebron Governorate. The latest visits included the villages of Abu al-Ghuzlan, Rabud, Deir Samet, and most recently, Beit ar-Rush. These outreach activities are part of the “Green Palestine: Promoting a Sustainable […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University remains steadfast in its mission to promote environmental awareness, sustainability, and community engagement. Through diverse educational and research initiatives, PIBS is fostering a culture of conservation and responsible environmental stewardship in Palestine. On Thursday, 13 March 2025, PIBS welcomed students from Bethlehem Evangelical Academy […]
On Friday, 28 February 2025, Bethlehem University’s Alumni Unit/Marketing and Communications Department, in collaboration with the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability, organized a special environmental and educational day for the university’s alumni and their families. The event aimed to raise environmental awareness and strengthen their connection with the university. Ms. Haneen Musleh, the Alumni […]
On Monday, 24 February 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University had the honor of hosting Mr. Munib Al Masri, Founder of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation (MAF), along with his team: Ms. Ruba Al-Ghadban, Executive Director; Mr. Ziad Abu Rdeneh, Projects Manager; and Ms. Shahd Fsteitieh, Media and […]
On Friday, 21 February 2025 the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability – Bethlehem University (PIBS) held its weekly educational activity for children attended by 17 participants. The activity of this week focused on how the children imagine the future of the environment. The session began with an exploration of Palestine’s landscapes, highlighting the rich […]
On Thursday, 13 February 2025, Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability – Bethlehem University (PIBS) hosted a webinar titled “Exploring Biosphere Reserves: Development of Al-Arqoub Reserve as a Biosphere Reserve.” This informative session, attended by 30 participants both in person and virtually, introduced attendees to the concept and significance of biosphere reserves, which are key […]
This week, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) took its Mobile Educational Unit to Um Safa, a village nearby Yatta in Hebron Governorate, for a two-day outreach program on Thursday and Friday 13-14 February 2025. Over 500 children and 100 adults participated in the educational activities, learning about Palestine’s rich natural environment. The […]
Do you have a passion for capturing the beauty of Palestinian nature? If you’re a photographer or an artist, this is your chance to participate in a competition that celebrates Palestinian landscapes, environment, and wildlife! Theme: This art contest invites artists and photographers to explore the beauty and significance of Palestinian landscapes, environment, and wildlife. […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University remains committed to engaging the community through a variety of weekly activities that align with its mission to raise awareness and promote behavioral change in environmental protection. On Tuesday, 28 January 2025, PIBS hosted students from the Lifegate Rehabilitation Center, who explored the Palestine […]
This week, the Animal Rehabilitation Unit at the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) received a young eagle owl, brought in by Tony Salsaa and Saed Shomaly. Dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing endangered and threatened species, PIBS has a strong track record of caring for wildlife and returning them to their natural habitats. Over […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) is beginning its activities as part of the “Green Palestine” project, implemented by World Vision, featuring its Mobile Educational Unit—the first of its kind in Palestine. This initiative aims to educate children and communities across the West Bank about biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and the importance of preserving […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability hosted an interactive educational activity on Friday, 17 January 2025, as part of its weekly children’s program. This session focused on aromatic plants and their uses in everyday life. The children had the chance to prepare aromatic playdough using plants from the institute’s botanical garden, such as lavender, […]
On Monday, 13 January 2025, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) held its annual retreat at Bethlehem University. The retreat provided an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of 2024 and discuss priorities for the year ahead, all of which will be detailed in the upcoming 2024 annual report. During the retreat, PIBS’s […]
Bethlehem University is honored to announce that Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh, founder and director of the Palestine Museum of Natural History (PMNH) and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS), has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. This prestigious nomination was made by Nobel Laureate Mairead Corrigan Maguire in recognition of Professor Qumsiyeh’s unwavering commitment […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University remains committed to engaging the community through a variety of weekly activities, each focusing on new topics and reaching diverse audiences. On Thursday, 5 December 2024, PIBS hosted a webinar titled “Building Museums Fast: An Overview of Digital Exhibit Design and Fabrication.” This session, part […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability held an interactive educational activity as part of its weekly children’s program. This week’s session focused on how animals adapt to the winter season, addressing challenges such as finding food, conserving energy, and surviving colder temperatures. Children learned about various survival strategies, including hibernation, migration, and behavioral or […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized two activities last week aimed at enhancing environmental awareness and strengthening the connection between the local community and nature. The first activity was a visit from the Environmental Club of the Muhammad Salem Al-Dhweib Boys’ School, where the students toured several of the institute’s […]
As part of the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability’s weekly educational activities, this week’s session was titled “Tales of Skulls and Teeth: What Do Teeth Say About What We Eat?” During the event, children enjoyed learning about the amazing adaptations in animals, discovering how unique traits like the shape of teeth, the thickness of […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University wrapped up its 10th-anniversary celebrations with a heartwarming community event at Jemima on Thursday, 7 November 2024. Children experienced the wonders of nature by exploring the institute’s Natural History Exhibit and creating beautiful crafts from recycled materials. This event reflected the institute’s ongoing commitment to […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability remains dedicated to engaging the community through a variety of weekly activities, each introducing new topics and reaching diverse audiences. On Thursday, 31 October 2024, they hosted a webinar titled “Priorities and Strategy for Action on Environment in Crisis: Street-Proven Design and Lessons for Palestine.” This session, part […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) has initiated its olive harvest activities at the PIBS Botanical Garden, inviting the public to participate in this important agricultural tradition. This year’s harvest demonstrated strong community involvement, with participation from various groups. The PIBS team was joined by local and international volunteers, along with students from […]
During the week of 21 October 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) organized a series of educational activities focused on the community, aimed at enhancing environmental awareness and fostering sustainability. On Monday, 21 October 2024, PIBS visited Bardala Girls’ Secondary School and Kardala Basic School. This visit marked the conclusion of their […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability organized its weekly educational activity for children on Friday, 18 October 2024, with this week’s theme centered around agriculture. As fall has arrived, the children took part in planting the community garden at the institute, preparing it for the new winter agricultural season. Following the planting session, the […]
Last week, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) conducted visits to four marginalized schools in the Jordan Valley using its Mobile Educational Unit, the first of its kind in Palestine. This initiative aims to reach a diverse range of students, universities, and remote communities throughout the West Bank. With support from the Ministry […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS), in partnership with Women Media and Development/TAM and the Nahalin Municipality, wrapped up a series of four engaging workshops aimed at establishing a Women’s Environmental Center in Nahalin. These workshops were designed to equip the founding members with the essential knowledge and skills they need to run […]
During the week of October 7, 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability – Bethlehem University (PIBS) organized a series of educational activities aimed at raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainability within the community. The week commenced on Wednesday, 9 October 2024, with a collaborative training workshop organized in partnership with the Women’s Development […]
In a powerful collaboration that reflects Bethlehem University’s commitment to community development and sustainability, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS), alongside Women Media and Development/TAM and the Nahalin Municipality, launched a transformative initiative: a series of training workshops to establish a Women’s Environmental Center in Nahalin. This center aims to empower women, provide […]
On 28 September 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with Women of the Sun, hosted a workshop for women from marginalized Palestinian communities. The event focused on practical solutions to water shortages, beginning with a hands-on session where participants learned to make biodegradable detergents. These eco-friendly alternatives […]
On Friday, 27 September 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) partnered with the Cremisan Salesian Convent to organize a nature and biodiversity visit for 25 children from the Terra Sancta Scout Troop. The goal of the program was to increase the children’s awareness and appreciation for the environment. The day began with […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with the A.M. Qattan Foundation, organized a workshop for students from Thabra Mixed Basic School on Thursday, 26 September 2024. The workshop focused on sustainable agriculture, covering the history of farming in Palestine and highlighting its rich agricultural heritage along with fundamental environmental […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) joined the global community in celebrating World Cleanup Day on Friday, 20 September 2024. PIBS organized a special educational event for children to promote environmental awareness and inspire positive behavioral change. During the event, children learned about the importance of keeping the environment clean, proper waste disposal, […]
Linda Handal successfully defended her Master’s thesis in the Biotechnology program at the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) on Friday, September 20, 2024. Her thesis, titled “Biodiversity Assessment of Wetlands in Palestine Using Environmental DNA (eDNA) Metabarcoding,” was supervised by Prof. Mazin Qumsiyeh, with Dr. Omar Dar Issa as the internal supervisor and […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History at Bethlehem University is excited to announce its membership in the Red Mundial de Museos Lasallian, a significant milestone that enhances its commitment to promoting Palestine’s unique natural heritage on a global scale. As one of only 24 museums in this esteemed network, the museum gains valuable opportunities for […]
As part of its mission to promote research, education, and environmental conservation—emphasizing the rich biodiversity of Palestine—the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability hosts weekly activities designed to raise environmental awareness among children and encourage positive behavioral changes. On Friday, 13 September 2024, PIBS organized a special event focused on medicinal plants in its botanical […]
This week, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability conducted two engaging educational activities centered on environmental topics, both of which occur on a weekly basis, featuring new subjects each time. The first activity was a webinar highlighting a manuscript accepted for publication in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, titled “Noteworthy Records of Vascular Plants […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) continued its efforts to raise environmental awareness through an educational event for children on Friday, 30 August 2024. The event was held in conjunction with World Water Week, which took place from August 25 to 29. The workshop focused on the critical importance of water conservation. Participants […]
Despite the challenging circumstances facing Palestine, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) continues to attract international interest. On Wednesday, 28 August 2024, PIBS welcomed a group of 33 visitors from the United States. The delegation toured the institute’s natural history and ethnography exhibits, explored the botanical garden, and attended a talk by Dr. […]
His Excellency Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Hani Al-Hayek, paid a visit to the Palestine Museum of Natural History on Saturday, 24 August 2024. He was warmly welcomed by Brother Hernán Santos, Vice Chancellor, Brother Jack Curran, Vice President for Advancement, and Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh and his wife, Mrs. Jessie Qumsiyeh, founders of the Palestine […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) continues its efforts to raise awareness about natural and environmental issues through a variety of educational activities. Women’s Workshop on Medicinal Plants On Thursday, August 22, 2024, PIBS held a workshop for women led by artist and nutritionist Rasha Tayeb. The workshop focused on the health benefits […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) harvested fresh, organic honey from their Botanical Garden on Friday, 16 August 2024. This event underscores the critical role bees play in ecological balance and illustrates the advantages of sustainable honey production practices. Bees are indispensable for pollinating a wide range of plants, a process that is […]
On Thursday, 15 August 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Imad Eldine Al-Baba, Director of the Protected Areas and Biodiversity Department at the Environment Quality Authority (EQA). The visit was part of the ongoing project funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), titled “Science-Based Conservation […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) continues to engage with the community through a range of regular and diverse activities, each week featuring new topics and beneficiaries. This week, on Thursday, 8 August 2024, they hosted a webinar titled “Management Plan for Protected Areas (PAs) Containing Wetlands in the Jordan Valley, Palestine,” aimed […]
During the week of 29 July, the Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) team was actively engaged in advancing environmental education through a series of activities. Through its Palestine Museum of Natural History (PMNH), the institute hosted two summer camp visits, directly interacting with 40 children from the Bethlehem Governorate. The children explored the […]
On 28 July 2024, World Nature Conservation Day serves as a crucial reminder of the collective duty to protect the planet’s natural resources and diverse ecosystems. Conservation is not just the responsibility of environmental organizations; it is something that everyone can support in their daily lives. Simple actions, such as reducing single-use plastics with reusable […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Augusta Victoria Hospital – Jerusalem
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with the Lutheran World Foundation, organized today an environmental activity at Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem. This initiative aimed to raise awareness among hospital staff about the crucial role of agriculture in fostering biodiversity and enhancing overall health, particularly within the context […]
During the week of 22 July 2024, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) team actively engaged the community through a series of enriching educational activities, demonstrating their commitment to environmental education. A key highlight was an online workshop titled “Echolocation: The Language of Bats,” presented by Professor Zuhair Amr from Jordan University of Science […]
Each week at the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) is unique, but all activities are centered on its core mission of environmental conservation. PIBS aims to conserve the environment by raising awareness about the importance of a healthy environment and how people’s daily actions, often done without thinking, heavily affect it. During the […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) currently has 12 volunteers, with 7 of them residing at PIBS. This is the highest number of volunteers the institute has hosted simultaneously since the war began 9 months ago. The group is diverse, including individuals from China, the USA, and Britain, as well as local Palestinian […]
On Wednesday, 17 July 2024, The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) had the privilege of hosting Ms. Ruba Al-Ghadban, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Munib and Angela Almasri Foundation (MAMF), and Mr. Ziad Abu Erdeeneh, Projects Manager at MAMF. During their visit, they toured PIBS’s renovation project, which aims to transform […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) remains actively engaged in environmental research and education. Last week, the institute’s team embarked on two field trips, led by staff and a combination of local and international volunteers. On Thursday morning, 11 July 2024, the team visited the small village of Artas, located within the Bethlehem […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) has achieved significant milestones across its three core areas: research, education, and conservation, over the past week. Research: Researchers from PIBS undertook two overnight field trips to document regional biodiversity. The first trip focused on Wadi Qana-Salfit and Marj Sanour-Jenin, while the second explored the Northern Jordan […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) established an Animal Rehabilitation Unit in 2019, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating numerous threatened animals. The unit has provided care for a diverse array of species, including mammals (foxes, hyenas, European badgers, mongooses, and bats), birds (golden eagles, eagle owls, black kites, crows), and reptiles (snakes). The […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History is undergoing a significant expansion project. The existing building is being renovated to add 1,300 square meters of museum space, significantly enhancing its capacity to showcase Palestine’s rich natural heritage. On Thursday, 27 June 2024, the museum held coordination meetings to move the project forward. The museum team collaborated […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History hosted over 250 children from four different summer camp groups last week. During their visit, the children participated in a variety of activities, including guided tours of PMNH’s natural history and ethnography exhibits, as well as explorations of the botanical garden. The children thoroughly enjoyed the experience, discovering new […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability organizes field trips that are instrumental in documenting and studying Palestine’s floral and faunal biodiversity, conducting research, publishing scientific papers, and implementing conservation measures. These excursions not only deepen participants’ and local communities’ appreciation for Palestine’s natural heritage but also contribute valuable data to global and local biodiversity […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability organized its weekly educational activity for children. During the event, the children played environmental games developed in-house at PIBS, including a Snakes and Ladders game designed to teach about sustainable living and reducing climate change. They also participated in fun competitions, learning interesting facts about fruits, vegetables, and […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability organized a flower planting activity with flowers donated by their partners at Cremisan Salesian Convent, in celebration of the Institute’s tenth anniversary. During the planting, PIBS conducted their weekly educational activity for children, teaching them about the importance of farming and its positive impact on the environment.
Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh, Director of Cytogenetic Services and Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS), and his wife Jessie recently returned from a 53-day advocacy tour across 17 cities in Australia and New Zealand (Aotearoa). Among their goals, the trip aimed to secure long-term support for Palestine, Bethlehem University, and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History, in collaboration with Caritas Jerusalem, successfully concluded a series of educational programs for children. Over eight visits, they welcomed 500 students and members of scout groups. This initiative focused on introducing participants to the rich biodiversity of Palestine, with a particular emphasis on the Al-Makhrour region. The program also […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University is ready for another exciting summer of environmental education! With the arrival of summer, PIBS is welcoming numerous camp and scout groups to raise awareness about environmental issues. The first group to visit PIBS was the Kids Club Summer Camp, a group of 32 […]
This year’s theme of the World Environment Day “land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience,” aligns with our mission and vision in Palestine. Through all our activities at the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS), we emphasize that sustainable human and natural communities begin with each of us individually. Palestine faces significant environmental challenges caused […]
In observance of World Environment Day, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University organized a engaging activity – planting flowers in their botanical garden. This initiative aimed to cultivate a deeper connection with nature among participants. PIBS team members, including staff, local volunteers, and international volunteers, all joined hands for the […]
This week, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) hosted a fun and educational program for children focused on insects, particularly their crucial role as pollinators. The young participants began by exploring the importance of biodiversity in the success of agriculture. Through a guided tour of the botanical garden, they observed different insects and […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University recently welcomed students from the Bachelor of Arts program in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage. Accompanied by their professor, Dr. Omar Dar Issa, the students were visiting as part of their Fauna and Flora course. This visit exemplifies PIBS’s commitment to fostering interdepartmental collaboration within […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University is continuing its successful partnership with the Salesians of Don Bosco at the Cremisan Monastery. This ongoing series of activities aims to cultivate a spirit of environmental respect and care in young people. Through immersive experiences in nature and engaging craft projects, the program […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University celebrated International Day for Biological Diversity with an educational activity for children on Friday, 24 May 2024. The children first explored the institute’s botanical garden with exploration kits which consist of compasses, measuring tapes, magnifying glasses, tubes and forceps, notebooks, and pens. They gathered […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with Caritas Jerusalem, is conducting a series of educational activities titled “Empowering Future Generations.” Through a series of educational activities, school students visit the institute and explore its various sections, including the natural history and ethnography museums, and the botanical garden. The goal […]
This year’s Biodiversity’s Day theme is “Be part of the Plan.” But which plan are we talking about? It’s the Biodiversity Plan, part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The GBF outlines an ambitious global conservation strategy, aiming for humanity to live in harmony with nature by 2050, and includes four main goals for […]
In commemoration of International Day for Endangered Species, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized a special learning activity for children on Friday, 17 May 2024. The children learned about endangered species in Palestine, the threats leading to their endangerment, and ways to protect them. They played an interactive game to […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with Caritas Jerusalem, is conducting a series of educational activities titled “Empowering Future Generations.” Through a series of educational activities, school students visit the institute and explore its various sections, including the natural history and ethnography museums, and the botanical garden. The goal […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University, in collaboration with A.M. Qattan Foundation, hosted students from Thabra Mixed Basic School (grades 6-9) for a day focused on environmental solutions. This event was part of the “STEAM PalHouse” project, which empowers students to develop solutions for environmental issues in their local communities. The […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University, in partnership with the Palestine Heritage Trail, organized a training session for 4th-grade teachers. The session addressed various topics, including Palestinian geography, ecotourism, agriculture, as well as the rich and diverse floral and faunal biodiversity of Palestine. The teachers also learned about environmental threats […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability recently organized an activity as part of a global initiative to educate people about their rights in Palestine, with a specific focus on maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Children enthusiastically joined us to celebrate the right to live in a clean environment. They embarked on a delightful […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability organized a special educational event on 15 November 2023, commemorating Independence Day. The event aimed to instill a sense of national pride in children by providing them with a unique experience in the institute’s botanical garden. Children enjoyed a guided tour, observing animals, cultivated plants, and learning about […]
A team from Bethlehem University’s Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability recently wrapped up an enriching training program in Greece, made possible through the Erasmus program. The program saw active participation from 20 individuals representing Palestine, Bulgaria, Italy, Greece, and France. During this comprehensive training, participants learned about the fundamental principles of ecological agriculture and […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Women of the Sun Charity Association to enhance mutual cooperation in common fields that serve The Palestinian Society and serve nature and humans in the broader framework. This MoU aims to develop society by rehabilitating women […]
This week, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability – Bethlehem University (PIBS-BU) concluded the integration of the Library of Congress classification system into the PIBS library. The PIBS library is one of the facilities available at the institute for people to come, enjoy, and benefit from. This opportunity is especially good for university students […]
Prof. Mazin Qumsiyeh teaches and does research at Bethlehem University and Birzeit University. A Palestinian born in Beit Sahour, he is the founder and director of the Palestine Museum of Natural History (PMNH) and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University. He previously served on the faculties of the University of […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized an event at Bethlehem Secondary School for Girls to launch the first mobile educational exhibition of its kind in Palestine on Tuesday, 10 May 2022. As part of the “Unity and Diversity in Nature and Society” project funded by the European Union, the mobile […]
Within the national efforts carried out by the Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) in partnership with the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability / Bethlehem University (PIBS / BU) to prepare and update The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), ten workshops were held with governmental and private institutions and relevant national experts on various […]
The Dean of Research and the Research Council held a webinar titled, “Environmental research leading to conservation and sustainability in Palestine,” Thursday, December 16, 2021. Prof. Mazin Qumsiyeh and Mr. Elias Handal, from the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability, provided an overview of the research activities, educational programs, and other outreach plans they have […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University (PIBS-BU) held the “First Palestinian Conference on Biodiversity and Human Diversity in Palestine” on Tuesday, November 30, 2021. This conference is one of the activities of the “Unity Diversity in Nature and Society” project, funded by the European Union Peacebuilding Initiative (EUPI), and implemented in […]
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) – Bethlehem University, in partnership with the Environmental Quality Authority (EQA), held a workshop to conclude the activities of the Sixth National Report on Biodiversity on Monday, 9 November 2021. The workshop also aimed to launch activities to update and prepare the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action […]
Someone once said that nature is a powerful teacher. If only people realized how rich these words are. Here, at Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability-Bethlehem University, we believe that we need to nurture more love of nature in our children- which leads to a more sustainable future. In January 2021, we started a new […]
The Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University organized an opening ceremony for the recently established Biodiversity Center on Monday, 21 June 2021, within the Unity and Diversity in Nature and Society project funded by the European Union. Project Manager, Linda Majaj, welcomed the guests and gave introductory remarks. Vice Chancellor Brother Peter Bray […]
Since 2020 has been a difficult year for everybody, the Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability (PBIS) started an educational series for children titled “New Year, New Fun” which aims to relieve some of the pandemic stress and connect children with nature. The year began with a “Find it, Stick it” scavenger hunt on 15 […]
Volunteers at Bethlehem University built a Biogas Unit at the Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS). The PIBS and its EU-funded Biodiversity Center continue to develop usable modules for education and for saving our environment. In this case, organic waste (such as kitchen waste) is digested by anaerobic bacteria (without oxygen) which then produce Methane […]
Bethlehem University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Environment Quality Authority on Monday, 07 December 2020, at the Palestine Museum of Natural History. The Vice Chancellor Brother Peter Bray and the Head of the Environment Quality Authority Mr. Jameel Mattor signed the MoU in the presence of the Director General of Natural Resources […]
Prof. Mazin B. Qumsiyeh, Director of the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) and the Palestine Museum of Natural History at Bethlehem University received the prestigious “2020 Paul K. Feyerabend Award – A World of Solidarity is Possible.” Prof. Qumsiyeh said he accepted the award on behalf of the team at the Palestine Institute […]
Palestine contains diverse habitats for such a small country and is biologically more diverse than some countries ten times its size. For the first time, the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) at Bethlehem University is carrying out projects that protect both people and nature. Several plant species are declining rapidly due to political […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History at Bethlehem University in partnership with Masar Ibrahim Al-Khalil held an opening ceremony of the Ethnography Exhibit under the patronage of Bethlehem Governor, Mr. Kamel Hamid, on Tuesday, 30 April 2019. Dr. Michael Sansur, Executive Vice President, emphasized the role of Bethlehem University in promoting cultural work through academic […]
The Palestine Museum of Natural History – Bethlehem University held a launching event for the “Building the Capacity to Protect the Palestinian Land and Heritage through Museology and Ecotourism” Project on Tuesday, 27 November 2018. The project is funded by the British Council through the Cultural Protection Fund and is implemented by the Museum in […]
The Korean Representative to Palestine, H.E. Young-sam Choi, and a delegation from the Representative’s Office visited Bethlehem University on Monday, 21 May 2018. Brother Peter Bray, Vice Chancellor, Brother Denis Loft, Vice President for Advancement, Dr. Irene Hazou, Academic Vice President, and Dr. Mazin Qumsieh, Director of Palestine Museum of Natural History, welcomed the delegation […]