Al-nasr forest: the city’s green refuge
Al-Nasr Forest is one of the largest urban green spaces in Tripoli, often described as the city’s “lungs.” Its trees serve as natural carbon sinks, absorbing harmful gases and releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere.
Carbon absorption: Hundreds of trees capture significant amounts of carbon dioxide daily, reducing the effects of urban pollution.
Cooling effect: The dense canopy provides shade while evapotranspiration helps cool the air, easing summer heat and lowering the risk of heat islands.
Biodiversity hub: The forest shelters birds, insects, and other species that sustain ecological balance and contribute to natural regeneration.
The University Road Green Space: Agriculture Meets Sustainability
Not far from Al-Nasr Forest, the Ministry of Agriculture maintains an extensive green area along University Road. While primarily used for agricultural research and trials, this space doubles as a vital urban climate regulator.
Pollution filter: Its strategic location near major roads allows trees and plants to act as a natural barrier against vehicle emissions.
Water regulation: Root systems absorb rainwater, reduce runoff, and recharge groundwater, helping surrounding neighborhoods during dry seasons.
Agricultural innovation: As a testing ground for crops suited to Libya’s climate, it supports both environmental sustainability and food security.
Local Climate Balance
Though limited in size, Tripoli’s green spaces play a significant role in moderating the city’s climate:
Mitigating the urban heat island effect caused by dense buildings and asphalt.
Increasing air moisture and contributing to cloud formation.
Providing healthier, cooler microclimates for nearby communities.
Challenges to Green Spaces
Despite their importance, these areas face ongoing threats: urban sprawl, lack of proper maintenance, and unsustainable land use. Cutting down trees or encroaching on green zones weakens the city’s natural defenses, raising risks of heat, drought, and air pollution.
Toward a Sustainable Tripoli
Safeguarding Al-Nasr Forest and the University Road green belt requires collective responsibility:
Reforestation to replace lost trees.
Community engagement through awareness campaigns and volunteer programs.
Urban planning policies that integrate green spaces into the city’s growth strategy.
Conclusion
Al-Nasr Forest and the Ministry of Agriculture’s green belt are not just green patches in Tripoli’s landscape; they are vital ecosystems that regulate climate, preserve biodiversity, and ensure healthier living conditions. Protecting and expanding them means investing in the city’s resilience and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.