Underwater Libya

Nature: a key asset to improve the future of Libya

09 November 2011 | News story
Following a protracted period of political unrest in Libya, increased protection and better management of marine and coastal areas could help rebuild the country and improve the economic security of its inhabitants.
A new IUCN report calls for improving the legal and institutional framework for nature conservation in Libya. At present, only four Libyan sites have been or are currently declared protected areas. These include the Farwa Lagoon, Farwa Island, Ain Ghazalah, Hisha Nature Reserve and Kouf National Park. The report identifies 24 new marine and coastal areas that would be worth protecting because of their natural and economic value.
"I am aware that nature conservation is not one of today's top priorities" states Alain Jeudy de Grissac, Head of the Marine Conservation Center for the Mediterranean and one of the authors of the report. "However, Libya's natural heritage and natural resources, if managed properly, can play an important role in ensuring a better future for the country and the Mediterranean environment. "
The Libyan coast is home to rare species of birds and fish, abundant marine life and unique vegetation. They therefore have a high economic, biological and social value for the local communities that live there. However, uncontrolled fishing, pollution, climate change and a low awareness of environmental issues among policy makers and the public are seriously threatening this hot spot of biodiversity.
The sandy beaches of Al Araar-Bouerat lahsoun for example, which extend on 70 kms in the Gulf of Sirte, are the main nesting sites for marine turtles in western Libya. It is also one of the few beaches where cartilaginous fish, such as sharks and rays, travel, and an important area for shorebirds. But the lack of adequate protection, illegal fishing and oil pollution are a growing risk for endangered species and their fragile environment.
"Defining the main elements of conservation is a vital step for the sustainable use of Libyan coasts" Carl Gustaf Lundin, Director, IUCN Global Marine and Polar Program. "By protecting endangered species, introducing sustainable fishing practices and developing eco-tourism, places like Al Araar-Bouerat can bring significant benefits to local communities. "