Environmental groups warn against construction near Mediterranean monk seal cave in Lebanon

Sunday 15 - 12:00

Around twenty environmental organizations have raised concerns over the resumption of construction works near a coastal cave in Lebanon believed to serve as a habitat for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal.

The controversy centers on a building project in the seaside town of Amchit, located in the Byblos district along the Mediterranean coast. Environmental activists say the construction site lies close to a cave that experts believe may be used by the rare marine mammal for shelter and reproduction.

NGOs call for stronger protection

In a joint statement, several Lebanese environmental groups expressed alarm after construction activities reportedly resumed in early March. The organizations warned that development near the cave could threaten a fragile ecosystem and disturb one of the few remaining habitats of the Mediterranean monk seal, considered one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.

Scientists and conservationists emphasize that protecting coastal caves is essential for the survival of the species, which relies on quiet and isolated areas to rest and breed.

Environmental review requested

The NGOs have appealed to Lebanon’s Ministry of Environment to temporarily halt the construction project until a comprehensive environmental impact study is conducted.

According to environmental advocates, previous scientific research carried out by national marine research institutions has already highlighted the ecological importance of the site for marine biodiversity and the conservation of the monk seal.

Activists also point out that legal procedures concerning the project are still ongoing, urging authorities to ensure that environmental regulations and international conservation agreements are fully respected.

Protecting a rare marine species

The Mediterranean monk seal once inhabited large parts of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean, but its population declined dramatically due to habitat loss, human disturbance and pollution.

Today, only a few hundred individuals remain in scattered populations across parts of the Mediterranean. Conservationists say protecting potential breeding sites is crucial for the survival of the species.

The debate surrounding the construction project in Amchit reflects broader challenges faced by coastal communities across the region, where economic development must be balanced with environmental preservation.