Syria has initiated the preparation of background papers on the environmental situation at all seven national river basins to be used to compile a sustainable development strategy and to develop relevant action plans required to respond to the identified needs and priorities. The papers are being prepared through an interactive participatory approach involving various governmental, academic, and research institutions, as well as local authorities and groups. The environmental effects of industrial, agricultural, and domestic activities, as well as socio-economic issues, are assessed in these papers. To help combat the pressures on the region's biodiversity, particularly due to habitat destruction, some countries of the region have begun to establish protected areas. Various economic instruments are also in use in the region to help promote sustainable development.
Instruments using the polluter pays principle also exist in the region.
In Syria, for example, a municipal service operation levy has been introduced for domestic and private institutions with regard to the collection of solid wastes. These rates differ according to quantities of waste generated and collected. In Lebanon, preparations are underway to introduce economic tools, such as taxation and incentives, for air pollution management. These tools will be integrated within the action plan and legislation for air pollution. However, their role in planning and implementation needs to be strengthened.