In a continued commitment to environmental sustainability, Coral Oil has once again joined hands with the Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (LRI), this time to plant over 200 trees in the scenic village of Baskinta. This year’s project represents Coral Oil’s ongoing pledge to restore Lebanon’s natural landscapes and combat deforestation.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Coral Oil’s dedication to reforestation began in recent years, and the company’s sustained efforts have had a lasting impact across Lebanon. From the northern mountains to the southern plains, Coral’s teams, alongside LRI, have focused on areas most in need of restoration.
“This is not just a CSR project for us,” explains Oscar Yamin, CEO of Coral. “It’s a moral responsibility to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of Lebanon. Every tree we plant is a step toward preserving this country’s biodiversity and combating the effects of climate change.”
Baskinta, with its high altitude and unique ecosystem, was an ideal location for this year’s reforestation efforts. By focusing on planting native species such as Cedrus Libani (cedar), Coral and LRI are ensuring the long-term success of these reforestation initiatives.
Hands in the Soil: Coral Oil’s Hands-On Approach
One of the hallmarks of Coral’s reforestation projects is its hands-on approach. Employees from all levels of the company participated in the Baskinta initiative, dedicating their time and energy to help plant the trees.
“Reforestation isn’t something that happens overnight; it’s an ongoing effort. That’s why it’s essential for us to stay involved year after year,” says Wassim Naddi, head of HSE at Coral. “What makes these initiatives special is that we’re not just funding them – we’re out there, actively contributing to the work. We believe that being part of the solution means getting our hands dirty, and our team loves doing just that.”
Collaborating with Communities
A key factor in the success of Coral’s reforestation programs has been collaboration with local communities. In Baskinta, the company worked closely with local leaders and volunteers to ensure the trees were planted in areas where they would have the greatest ecological and social impact.
“The local community’s involvement is crucial,” adds Yamin. “When people take ownership of their natural resources, they protect them. We’re not just planting trees; we’re planting roots in the community and creating a long-term partnership.”
Tackling Climate Change One Tree at a Time
With climate change affecting Lebanon’s natural landscape, reforestation projects like those led by Coral and LRI play a critical role in restoring ecosystems and mitigating environmental challenges. The 200 trees planted in Baskinta are expected to not only improve air quality but also prevent soil erosion and support local wildlife.
“Trees are our first line of defense against the harsh impacts of climate change,” Naddi explains. “What we’re doing here goes beyond beautifying the landscape – it’s about sustainability, ensuring the land remains fertile and resilient for years to come.”
Looking Ahead
As Coral looks toward future environmental initiatives, it remains committed to its vision of a greener Lebanon. The Baskinta reforestation project is just one of many planned for the upcoming years, with a growing focus on promoting environmental education and engaging with younger generations to cultivate a culture of sustainability.
“We’re proud of the work we’ve done, but there’s still so much more to do,” says Yamin. “We’ll keep pushing forward because every tree planted today contributes to a better tomorrow.”
With efforts like these, Coral is proving that corporate responsibility goes beyond business – it’s about leaving a positive, lasting impact on the world we all share.
