Tripoli:Chouf: Environment Minister Dr. Tamara El Zein has launched a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing forest fire prevention in the Chouf region. These efforts include the distribution of firefighting equipment, signing cooperation agreements with local municipalities, and awarding training certificates to 33 first responders.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Dr. El Zein inaugurated an operations room at the Sweijani Municipalities Union and was accompanied by MP Farid Boustany, municipal officials, and representatives of project partners during the event. The initiatives are part of the "Forest Fire Prevention in Lebanon" project, funded by the Global Environment Facility through the World Bank, and focus on areas identified as high-risk in Chouf, Akkar, and North Lebanon.
El Zein emphasized the importance of proactive measures such as prevention, early warning systems, and improved coordination to effectively combat forest fires. She highlighted the necessity to shift from reactive responses to preventive strategies, especially in the context of increasing fire risks due to climate change.
She also cautioned against the intentional setting of fires to gather firewood, which has become a concern due to rising heating-fuel costs, calling for stringent measures against such actions. The minister noted that equipping municipalities, training first responders, and establishing operations rooms are essential steps in improving rapid intervention and information-sharing.
El Zein expressed her hope that these initiatives would serve as a model for national efforts to safeguard Lebanon's forests and natural resources.
