‘Lebanon; a threatened biodiversity’ by The Biodiversity and Cinema Collective, Lebanon.

Join us on Wednesday, March 26, at 7:30 PM at Woodbine for a screening of three short films that explore Lebanon’s biodiversity and the threats it faces. Through the lens of Lebanese filmmakers and environmentalists, these films examine the country’s diverse natural landscapes and the ongoing harm caused by urbanization, environmental neglect, and misguided development.

This event is especially timely as Lebanon’s environment has suffered severe damage from Israel’s attacks and use of white phosphorus since October 2023, and its invasion of South Lebanon. The films will take you into:

• A centuries-old grotto, shaped by nature, is now up for sale. This film takes a critical look at tourism-driven development, questioning what happens when natural heritage is treated as private property.
• A rare coastal flower continues to bloom in Beirut, despite the city’s rapid expansion. This documentary explores the decline of green spaces, the consequences of urbanization, and the personal stories tied to a vanishing landscape.
• ⁠A fast-spreading tree thrives in Beirut, outcompeting native species—just as environmental destruction unfolds elsewhere in the country due to Israel’s relentless violence and attacks. This film connects the ecological consequences of an imported species to broader issues of land use, displacement, and survival.

We are a collective of grassroots Arab organizers based in NYC. All proceeds will support the Biodiversity and Cinema Initiative, which raises awareness about Lebanon’s biodiversity and natural heritage, as well as other grassroots Lebanese organizations committed to environmental preservation.

Places are limited so make sure to register on eventbrite.