Beirut: The Ministry of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Beirut Order of Engineers, has launched the “Roadside Afforestation” program as a national initiative focused on revitalizing Lebanese cities and villages.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the launch ceremony held at the Order’s headquarters was patronized by Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani, who emphasized the initiative’s alignment with the Ministry’s vision of promoting environmental sustainability and improving the quality of life in Lebanon. Hani noted the importance of trees beyond decoration, highlighting their role in air purification, heat mitigation, and environmental restoration.
Hani detailed the program’s objective to transform Lebanese streets into green corridors with miniature gardens featuring authentic Lebanese trees such as carob, walnut, cherry, and pine. These efforts aim to preserve Lebanon’s natural identity and strengthen the connection between people and their land. The Ministry has already received over 150 requests from municipalities to participate, and certificates of appreciation will be awarded to contributors.
The initiative encourages participation from various sectors, with Hani calling on all bodies, institutions, and individuals to join the campaign, which will continue until January 6, Tree Day. He stressed the collective responsibility for the initiative’s success, involving the state, municipalities, schools, the private sector, and youth.
The ceremony also featured a technical dialogue session addressing the engineering and environmental frameworks for roadside tree planting, underscoring the importance of scientific planning and involving landscape engineers to ensure sustainability and effectiveness.
The event concluded by recognizing the “Tree Planting Along Roads” initiative as a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable Lebanon, reflecting a new vision of partnership and integration aimed at restoring environmental balance and enhancing the quality of life across Lebanese cities and villages.