USPEaK Organization Hosts Conference: Navigating Environmental Challenges in Northern Bekaa for a Sustainable Future

The USPEaK organization, in collaboration with the Lebanese Environmental Movement, hosted a groundbreaking conference titled “Navigating Environmental Challenges in Northern Bekaa for a Sustainable Future,” under the esteemed governance of Dr. Nasser Yassin, the Minister of Environment. This significant event aimed to shed light on pressing environmental issues in the region and explore viable solutions for a sustainable future. At the organization’s center in Baalbek, distinguished guests gathered to discuss the critical need for environmental care and action, including officials from various governmental bodies and social groups.

Rawan Yaghi, President of the USPEaK organization, emphasized the significance of collaboration, highlighting how working together saves time and enhances critical thinking. Drawing attention to the alarming statistic that 60% of climate change is caused by human activities, Yaghi outlined the association’s core objectives, which include education, equality, social protection, and combating extremism. She stressed the importance of fostering cooperation among all segments of society.

Minister of Environment Nasser Yassin, in a remote intervention, underscored the crucial role of environmental stewardship in the Bekaa region. He emphasized the need to reduce chronic pollution and address pollution in the Litani River through initiatives such as the World Bank’s new project, the completion of the sewage network in central Bekaa, and effective wastewater treatment. Minister Yassin also highlighted collaborative efforts with UNICEF to rehabilitate non-functional sewage treatment plants in Jabal Jeneen and Iaat, as well as the establishment of the Nasiriya station in central Bekaa. He stressed the importance of coordination with the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Energy, and Water to ensure the protection of natural resources.

Fadlallah Hassouna, President of the Lebanese Environmental Movement, passionately emphasized the significance of preserving the environment as a sacred trust passed down from our ancestors. Expressing concern over severe environmental violations and the high percentage of cancer patients in the Bekaa region due to pollution, he called for the election of a president, the formation of a government, and collective efforts toward progress and recovery.

The conference featured two engaging sessions. The first session, moderated by Farah Kanaan, included esteemed speakers such as Habiba Zaatar, Omar Al-Mays, Bassem Al-Zain, and Nada Al-Shal, who shared valuable insights and experiences. The second session, moderated by journalist Mustafa Raad, brought together Ibrahim Hawi, Jihad Haider, Hussein Abu Hamdan, and Karim Raad, who further delved into the challenges at hand and proposed potential solutions.

Combining expertise, experiences, and perspectives, this conference on “Addressing Environmental Challenges in Northern Bekaa: Uniting for Sustainable Solutions” was a vital platform to promote collaboration, raise awareness, and inspire collective action. Through such concerted efforts, we can safeguard our environment, ensuring a thriving and sustainable future for future generations.