The beach of Ramlet Al-Bayda is the only remaining ‘public’ sandy beach in Beirut; it constitutes less than 10% of the length of Beirut’s seashore. While it is one of the major public spaces in the capital city of Lebanon it has gotten unsafe, polluted and about two-thirds of the land has become private property. This situation has opened doors to real-estate projects threatening public accessibility and use. In recent years, Ramlet al Bayda beach fell victim to illegal privatization with the construction of the Eden Bay Resort directly on its shore even though NAHNOO provided hard evidence of violations from the developer and corruption from the Governor’s office in place at that time.
NAHNOO identified three major issues hindering the beach’s sustainability and public access:
- Pollution: Ramlet Al Bayda is a victim of heavy pollution that threatens public health and the existing marine ecosystem. The heavy pollution includes the trash that sporadically litters the beach and the sewage that is directly dumped into the water
- Urban Identity and Connectivity: Although seaside practices have historically been a part of Beirut’s social, cultural, and economic identity, Ramlet el-Bayda is disconnected from the city’s urban fabric.
- Safety and Management: certified lifeguards & safety indicators are absent, and necessary public equipment (e.g., umbrellas, chairs, trash cans) and infrastructure (e.g., changing rooms & showers, easily accessible entrances) are not readily available.
Campaign Goals
01. Put an end to pollution by implementing an updated and sustainable wastewater management plan for Beirut
02. Ensure Ramlet el-Bayda is a well-managed, safe, and clean space through the provision of quality and accessible services, providing the proper environment for the visitors
03. Remove the violations on Ramlet el-Bayda and forbid all future constructions
04. Promote Ramlet el-Bayda’s connectivity to the city
