News
Tyre Coast Nature Reserve - Sustainable Blue Tourism in Lebanon
February 2025
The Blue Tourism Initiative, in collaboration with its partner IUCN Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation (IUCN-Med), is proud to announce the launch of its pilot projects in Lebanon, advancing sustainable tourism in the Mediterranean through innovative approaches at three exceptional sites:
- Tyre Coast Nature Reserve,
- Palm Islands Nature Reserve, and
- Anfeh Salt Pans.
These projects go beyond site-specific efforts, integrating conservation and tourism to address regional environmental challenges while fostering resilience and community empowerment.
Tyre Coast Nature Reserve
Grantee: Tyre Coast Nature Reserve (TCNR)
Project Title: EcoPeace: Revitalizing Tyre Coast Nature Reserve through Conservation, Community Empowerment, and Sustainable Tourism
Duration: January 2025 – March 2026
Located in the historic city of Tyre, the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve (TCNR) is a treasure trove of archaeological heritage, featuring remarkable underwater ruins. As one of Lebanon’s three designated marine reserves, it plays a crucial role in conservation, serving as a vital nesting site for endangered migratory turtles. This project focuses on rebuilding and revitalising the reserve following recent conflict-related damages, promoting conservation, sustainable tourism, and community resilience.
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Project Objectives
- Assess and Restore Biodiversity: Study and address the impacts of recent conflict on TCNR’s ecosystems and local communities to inform effective restoration.
- Engage and Empower Communities: Foster trust and collaboration by involving local populations in conservation and restoration efforts.
- Increase Awareness and Education: Enhance public understanding of TCNR’s ecological value and promote responsible tourism through targeted educational campaigns.
- Rehabilitate Visitor Infrastructure: Rebuild damaged facilities to improve visitor experiences while safeguarding sensitive areas.
- Support Sustainable Livelihoods: Empower local communities, particularly women, through sustainable income-generating activities such as eco-friendly handicrafts that align with conservation goals.
Key Activities
- Biodiversity and Socio-Economic Assessments: Conduct ecological surveys and analyse the socio-economic impacts of the conflict to guide restoration efforts.
- Community Engagement Initiatives: Organize community dialogues and participatory campaigns, such as “Healing the Coast” cleanup drives.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch a user-friendly TCNR website, equip the visitor centre with educational materials, and host interactive events to educate tourists and residents.
- Infrastructure Rehabilitation: Repair visitor facilities, install directional signage, create a museum showcasing turtles and other key species, and renovate a guesthouse for researchers and volunteers.
- Sustainable Livelihood Programs: Train local women in producing eco-friendly handicrafts and integrate stakeholders into the “Environment-Friend Label” Initiative.
Expected Results
- Comprehensive understanding of the war’s impact on biodiversity and local livelihoods, guiding restoration priorities.
- Stronger community engagement in conservation efforts, fostering local stewardship of TCNR’s resources.
- Increased public awareness of TCNR’s ecological and cultural importance, promoting responsible tourism.
- Improved infrastructure and visitor management systems, supporting eco-tourism while protecting sensitive environments.
- Sustainable income streams for TCNR and local communities through eco-friendly products and services.
Impact
The EcoPeace project will position TCNR as a leading Mediterranean Marine Protected Area, balancing biodiversity conservation with socio-economic benefits. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and enhancing sustainable tourism, the project ensures TCNR’s long-term resilience and growth as a model for integrated conservation and sustainable development.