In the framework of the MENA-Region project "Climate Change and Protected Areas" the participants from the first series of practitioner-workshops (April/November 2016 and April 2017) were asked to write a concept-paper for a pilot-project to be implemented in their home countries. After a selection process, three participants received an award for the implementation of their projects. Criteria for the selection were, for example, that background information and a reason for the project are clearly formulated, and that the goal and the expected results, and how they should be achieved, are adequately explained. The planned activities are intended to contribute to the strengthening of nature conservation areas as an effective instrument for climate protection and adaptation to climate change.

The oasis are currently facing the additional challenge of climate change, which may bring with it even greater constraints (water scarcity, extreme weather events). As a result of the degrading ecosystem, the oasis no longer provide sufficient means of subsistence thus the oasis populations are forced to resort to seasonal migration and have an increased dependence on the income earned from migrating. This results in the abandonment of practices adapted for the oasis zone, and leading to a loss of environmental services.

The training offered an excellent opportunity to diversify income sources as contribution to improve living conditions of the population vulnerable to climate change. 29 Women and 4 men from the local population took part. 

Palm fronds are an environmentally friendly and renewable source of material. Woven bags and baskets can last a long time and, in addition, are a great way to replace plastic bags.