The Lebanese Environment Forum (LEF) organized the eighth session of its seminar series and traveling exhibitions on marine environmental protection in the municipal hall of Al-Abbasiya, Tyre district. The event was held under the patronage of the Qaimaqam (District Governor) of Tyre, Mr. Mohammad Jfal, in collaboration with local municipalities, associations, fishermen, and natural reserves.
*Key Highlights:*
1. *Opening Remarks:* A representative from the Al-Abbasiya Beach Association welcomed the initiative, praising LEF’s role in raising awareness about marine reserves and strengthening administrative frameworks. He reaffirmed the reserve’s readiness to contribute to national conservation efforts.
2. *New Terrestrial Reserve Announced:* Al-Abbasiya Municipality President Ali Izz El-Din announced the launch of the “Al-Abbasiya Terrestrial Reserve,” spanning seven hectares, to complement the existing marine reserve. This aligns with the integrated “Blue Conservation” project.
3. *Importance of Reserve Networks:* Malek Ghandour emphasized the uniqueness of Tyre’s coast, home to four interconnected marine and terrestrial reserves (Al-Abbasiya, Tyre, Al-Qalilya, and Al-Mansouri). These reserves are vital for protecting sea turtle habitats and promoting sustainable management.
4. * Asaad Sarhal, Director of the Society for the Protection of Nature (SPN) and BirdLife International’s Middle East representative, presented the “Bio Connect” project, which aims to link reserves ecologically and economically. Rebecca Baissari (MPAS project manager) highlighted the socio-environmental benefits of marine reserve networks.
5. *Success Stories:* Achievements from the Al-Abbasiya Beach Reserve, community projects by the ADR Association, and efforts by Al-Qalilya Municipality to protect sea turtle nesting sites were showcased.
*Closing Session:*
The event featured interactive engagement with exhibition tools and the signing of petitions to expand marine protection and enhance collaboration among stakeholders. This marks a step toward realizing Lebanon’s vision of sustainable green-blue conservation.