Libya is grappling with profound environmental challenges as climate change and rising temperatures lead to dwindling rainfall, expanding desertification, and a severe water crisis across most regions. In response, the General Administration of Environmental Sanitation at the Ministry of Local Government (Government of National Unity) recently met with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) to discuss establishing climate change units within municipalities.
Scientific indicators highlight a significant decline in vegetation and the disappearance of wild species along the coast due to a shrinking rainy season and annual precipitation falling below 400 mm, according to Tarek al-Maqsabi, Professor of Plant Ecology at the University of Benghazi. This water scarcity, coupled with extreme heat, has forced the agricultural sector to rely heavily on artificial irrigation and made seasonal crop forecasting increasingly difficult, as noted by Salah Bou-Awina, Professor of Water Resources Engineering.
Warnings have also been issued regarding the country’s natural pastures. Al-Mabrouk al-Mashay, head of the Natural Rangeland Development Authority, stated that open pastures are on the verge of extinction due to prolonged drought and overgrazing, which has resulted in reduced livestock numbers and the loss of indigenous breeds. To mitigate these risks, environmental researcher Yasmin al-Ahmar advocated for national adaptation policies, including comprehensive databases, forest protection, and modern irrigation systems.
Furthermore, Abu Bakr al-Mansouri of the Edama Organization pointed out significant gaps in environmental legislation and public awareness, emphasizing the need to engage youth and promote ecotourism. Classified by “World Atlas” as one of the driest countries—with an average annual rainfall of only 56 mm—Libya’s vast desert terrain further intensifies the impact of heat and desertification.
The National Center for Emergency and Crisis Management has called for strengthening national readiness through reforestation projects and the reclamation of degraded lands. Experts agree that safeguarding Libya’s natural resources for future generations requires urgent strategic planning focused on water sustainability, protecting vegetation, and fostering environmental awareness.
