LEBANON - The Environmental Committee in Tannourine has reported the continued destruction of forests and ancient trees within the town’s jurisdiction, warning of repeated environmental violations despite regulatory oversight and issued permits.
In a statement, the committee said it is following up, in coordination with relevant environmental associations, on what it described as “ongoing encroachments on forests and perennial trees,” the latest of which was recorded in the Dhour El Chaqfan–Houb area within the Wata Houb cadastral zone.
Field inspections and photographic evidence from the site, according to the committee, indicate that activities exceeded the limits of permitted pruning and charcoal production authorized under an official license. The violations reportedly included the cutting of mature trees considered to have high ecological and natural value.
The committee noted that this incident follows a previous violation recorded in the Ain El Raha area, raising “serious concerns” about the repeated misuse of permits intended for regulated forestry activities. It warned that such practices threaten forest resources and undermine the legal framework governing their management.
While welcoming the response of the relevant authorities and the security forces, which led to the arrest of the alleged offender and the seizure of equipment used in transporting timber, the committee stressed the need for further investigation.
It called for comprehensive technical assessments to determine the full extent of environmental damage and to establish legal accountability for those involved.
The committee also urged the Ministry of Agriculture and other concerned bodies to conduct an urgent and thorough field inspection of the affected area, assess ecological losses, and strengthen monitoring of pruning, logging, and charcoal production activities.
It further recommended stricter enforcement of permit conditions through regular documented inspections and the suspension of any additional licenses for individuals found in violation of environmental regulations.
Reaffirming that forest protection does not conflict with landowners’ rights, the committee emphasized that sustainable resource management is both a right and a responsibility.
It concluded that Tannourine’s forests and ancient trees are an essential part of the region’s natural heritage and must be safeguarded as a shared national and ethical duty.
