From the golden dunes that cradle nesting turtles to the freshwater springs nourishing coastal farms, the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve (TCNR) is a gem of the Mediterranean. In a time of mounting environmental pressures, the 2023–2028 Management Plan offers a bold, integrated roadmap to protect this critical ecosystem while empowering the communities that depend on it.
🌊 A Living Landscape of Diversity and History
Designated in 1998 and recognized under the Barcelona Convention as a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI), TCNR spans 3.8 km² of terrestrial and marine habitats. It is home to endangered green and loggerhead turtles, diverse migratory birds, wetlands, and rare plant communities. The reserve also guards Phoenician-era archaeological sites, creating a unique fusion of nature and culture.
🧭 A Clear Mission
The 2023–2028 plan sets a comprehensive vision:
“To preserve and sustainably manage the natural, cultural, and socio-economic values of TCNR through participatory governance, ecosystem-based management, and resilient development.”
🎯 Strategic Objectives
The plan is structured around five strategic objectives:
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Conservation of Biodiversity & Ecosystems
Actions include restoring degraded habitats, protecting turtle nesting areas, controlling invasive species, and establishing long-term monitoring. -
Sustainable Tourism & Environmental Education
Eco-friendly infrastructure (signage, boardwalks, interpretation panels) and guided tours aim to raise awareness while ensuring minimal environmental impact. -
Support for Local Livelihoods & Agriculture
The plan promotes sustainable fishing, organic farming, and nature-based income alternatives, especially in the agricultural and touristic zones. -
Improved Governance & Capacity Building
By strengthening the role of the TCNR management committee and harmonizing legal frameworks, the plan seeks to ensure transparent and participatory governance. -
Climate Resilience & Pollution Control
Initiatives include combating marine litter, improving wastewater management, and enhancing climate adaptation through nature-based solutions.
🛠️ Key Interventions
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Turtle Protection Protocols with beach monitoring and hatchling rescue
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Community Engagement Programs involving youth, fishers, and schools
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Wastewater Redirection and lagoon protection in coordination with municipalities
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Marine Surveys to track species richness and reef health
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Integrated Zoning Plan to regulate activities and resolve land-use conflicts
📊 Measuring Success
Each objective is tied to SMART indicators — such as the number of nesting turtle sites protected, reduction in illegal structures, or volume of waste diverted from the sea — monitored annually with clear timelines and responsibilities.
🤝 Partnerships & Funding
The plan’s implementation hinges on collaboration. Core partners include Lebanon’s Ministry of Environment, local municipalities, NGOs, scientific institutions, and international donors like SPA/RAC-UNEP/MAP and the EU. Funding is expected to come from blended sources: national budgets, donor grants, eco-tourism revenues, and public-private partnerships.
📅 Implementation Phases
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Phase I (2023–2024): Capacity building, urgent site protection, initial zoning
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Phase II (2024–2026): Infrastructure improvement, livelihood support, marine restoration
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Phase III (2026–2028): Consolidation, evaluation, and adaptation of strategies
🌱 An Emblem of Hope
In the face of rapid urbanization, climate change, and socio-political instability, the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve stands not only as a sanctuary for wildlife — but as a model for resilient, inclusive, and science-informed conservation. The 2023–2028 Management Plan transforms this vision into action.
📎 To read the full Management Plan (English PDF, 2023–2028):
Download Here
