On September 14, 2024, LIMS hosted the eighth edition of its “LLA101 Economic Foundations of Prosperity” workshop in Byblos. This gathering brought together 30 high profile reform minded activists and engaged citizens to address pressing local challenges, such as boosting tourism in the region of Byblos, and tackling the problem of water scarcity. Participants also examined cross-regional issues like electricity shortages and waste management, concluding with a comprehensive action paper and the establishment of a committee to oversee the implementation and follow up.

To invigorate Byblos’ tourism, attendees proposed reactivating the Jbeil Traders Association, preserving the character of the Jbeil Souk, diversifying shops, and creating a permanent agricultural market. For electricity, they recommended private-public collaborations on renewable energy, inspired by initiatives in nearby Ghalboun and Toula, as well as leveraging municipal lands for solar plants and rehabilitating the Nahr Ibrahim hydropower plant.

Addressing water scarcity, suggestions included municipal-private partnerships for water ponds, better surface water usage, and a wastewater treatment plant. Waste management solutions emphasized municipal enforcement against littering, incentives for private waste collection at source, simplified sorting for residents, and public awareness campaigns through social media and community engagement.