British ambassador, environment minister inaugurate King Charles III Cedar Trail

British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell and Minister of Environment Tamara al-Zein have inaugurated the “King Charles III Cedar Trail”, a new reforestation and eco-tourism initiative in the Shouf Biosphere Reserve.

The event was attended by Noura Jumblat, the mayors and makhateer of Ain Zahalta, Bmahray and Mokhtara, the head of the reserve committee Faisal Abu Ezzeddine, and the reserve's staff.

The trail, named to mark King Charles III’s coronation in May 2023, features 96 cedar trees planted to celebrate of the UK-Lebanon friendship.

"The trail reflects the UK’s enduring commitment to Lebanon’s environmental resilience," a British embassy statement said.

The cedar tree, Lebanon’s national emblem and a symbol of fortitude and resilience, stands at the heart of this initiative. The trail ranges from 1,300 to 1,800 meters elevation and connects to the iconic Lebanon Mountain Trail, offering hikers a rich biodiversity experience and a tangible link to Lebanon’s natural heritage.

The project was funded by the UK Government’s Climate Diplomacy Fund, which supports global leadership on climate action and is dedicated to helping partner countries unlock sustainable energy solutions.

In September, the UK supported the launch of Lebanon’s National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP 2025–2030) which provides a strategic roadmap for Lebanon’s renewable energy ambitions and implementation priorities for the coming years.

The project also builds on the legacy of the Queen Elizabeth II Cedar Trail, established in 2016, where 90 young cedar trees were planted to commemorate the late queen's 90th Birthday. In November 2022 and in memory of the late queen, another cedar tree was planted, as a continuation of The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

British Ambassador Cowell said: “The King Charles III Cedar Trail is a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Lebanon. It reflects our shared commitment to climate action, biodiversity, and the preservation of Lebanon’s iconic natural heritage. As we look ahead, this trail stands as a living testament to our partnership and our joint efforts to build a greener, more resilient future.”

Minister of Environment al-Zein said: “We are proud to partner with the United Kingdom on this meaningful initiative. The Cedar tree is not only our majestic national tree, but also a symbol of hope and steadfastness. The King Charles III Cedar Trail strengthens our environmental cooperation and highlights Lebanon’s commitment to reforestation and climate resilience. We thank the UK for its continued support.”

Head of the Reserve Committee Faisal Abu Ezzeldin said: “Today we inaugurate the King Charles III Trail at the Shouf Biosphere Reserve’s Ain Zhalta–Bmohray Cedar Forest entrance. This new route established with UK support complements existing trails, including the nearby Queen Elizabeth II Trail, and celebrates Lebanon’s rich natural heritage. Developed with local communities, these trails blend history and geography, enhancing the Reserve’s identity as a sanctuary of beauty, biodiversity, and peace.”