Motion 148

The 2023–2024 armed aggression on Lebanon caused extensive and unprecedented environmental damage across terrestrial, freshwater, marine, and agricultural ecosystems. The destruction of vegetation cover, soil contamination, and collapse of ecosystem services have disrupted livelihoods and ecological stability. The Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDNA), conducted in collaboration with the World Bank, estimated US$ 6.8 billion in physical damages and US$ 7.2 billion in economic losses, with the environment bearing a significant share of the burden.
A national environmental assessment coordinated by the Ministry of Environment and the National Council for Scientific Research – Lebanon (CNRS-L) further documented the loss of 4,946 ha of forest cover, contamination of soils and air, and severe impacts on agriculture and fisheries. Despite these findings, environmental recovery has not yet been systematically integrated into Lebanon’s reconstruction planning or supported through dedicated international mechanisms.
The motion therefore calls upon IUCN Members, the Secretariat, and partners to support the development of a coordinated, science-based, and inclusive response. It builds on IUCN’s existing standards and tools, such as the Restoration Barometer, Red List of Ecosystems, and Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas, applying them to a post-conflict national context. The motion aligns with IUCN Programme priorities and with global frameworks including the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), UNCCD, UNFCCC, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Implementation will require both human and financial resources. Based on national assessments, the indicative cost of key activities is approximately US$ 12.85 million, including:
Field restoration and ecosystem monitoring (≈ US$ 9.7 million);
Scientific testing and environmental monitoring (≈ US$ 1.5 million);
Capacity-building and stakeholder coordination (≈ US$ 1 million);
Communication, fundraising, and policy support (≈ US$ 650,000).
These costs would be met through combined efforts from national institutions, bilateral and multilateral donors, and international partners. Implementation will rely on existing human capacities at the Ministry of Environment, CNRS-L, and IUCN Commissions, with technical coordination from the IUCN Secretariat and regional partners.
A motion is required because no previous IUCN Resolution or Recommendation specifically addresses the issue of post-war ecological recovery or provides a mechanism for integrating ecosystem restoration into reconstruction and humanitarian planning. Adoption of this motion will provide the institutional mandate and international recognition necessary to mobilize global expertise, partnerships, and financing for Lebanon’s environmental recovery, ensuring that reconstruction proceeds in a manner consistent with the principles of ecological sustainability and community resilience