Libya Unveils Green and Circular Economy Policy Framework, Advancing its New Sustainable Development, Emissions Reduction and Tourism Growth

Published on December 6, 2025

On December 3, 2025, Libya officially adopted its Green and Circular Economy Policy Framework at a ceremony in Cairo on the occasion of COP24 to the Barcelona Convention. This step is very important for the country, as it lays a solid base for its transition toward a greener and more resource-efficient economy. The framework will expedite the transition toward a more resilient, innovative, and low-carbon economic model, placing Libya among the forerunners in the southern Mediterranean region regarding sustainability.

Environment Minister Ibrahim Al-Arabi underlined that this framework would enable Libya to manage its resources more sustainably and have lower levels of emissions, while stimulating greener growth. This is an important legacy for Libya’s commitment to meeting international climate goals while also ensuring long-term economic prosperity for its citizens.

A Key Milestone in Libya’s Green Progress

The Green and Circular Economy Policy is part of the EU-funded Green Progress initiative, which is being implemented by Expertise France across eight southern Mediterranean countries. Libya’s early adoption of an integrated framework sets a precedent for other participating states, underscoring its commitment to not only improving natural resource management but also advancing towards a greener economy.

The policy focuses on circular economy principles, which aim to minimize waste and maximize the reuse of resources, significantly reducing the environmental footprint. As part of the framework, Libya will invest in technologies and policies that support energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and clean manufacturing processes, setting the stage for more eco-friendly infrastructure development in the coming years.

Tourism’s Role in Libya’s Green Future

A crucial component of Libya’s sustainability strategy is its potential impact on the tourism sector. By adopting the Green and Circular Economy Policy, Libya is positioning itself as a sustainable tourism destination, attracting visitors who are increasingly looking for eco-friendly and responsible travel options. The country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and natural landscapes are key assets in attracting international visitors, and a commitment to sustainable tourism will enhance these attractions’ long-term viability.

The new policy’s emphasis on sustainable resource management will directly benefit tourism by ensuring that Libya’s natural wonders, such as its deserts, coastlines, and archaeological sites, are preserved for future generations of travelers. This initiative will likely encourage the growth of eco-tourism and cultural tourism, where visitors are drawn not only by the country’s heritage but by its efforts to protect the environment.

Strengthening Libya’s Global Position in Sustainable Tourism

With the Green and Circular Economy Policy in place, Libya is setting its sights on becoming a major tourism destination for sustainable travel. As the country develops its eco-friendly infrastructure, such as green hotels, sustainable transport options, and environmentally conscious attractions, it will draw travelers interested in both cultural exploration and sustainable practices.

Libya’s rich biodiversity, including its unique landscapes and cultural heritage sites, offers ample opportunities for eco-tourism development. The new policy will support the country’s efforts to balance tourism growth with the preservation of these areas, ensuring a harmonious relationship between visitor experiences and environmental protection.

Enhancing Global Partnerships for Tourism and Sustainable Growth

As part of the Green Progress initiative, Libya is also increasing its participation in international collaborations to bolster its tourism and sustainability efforts. Global partnerships will allow Libya to share best practices in eco-tourism, energy efficiency, and cultural preservation with other countries and attract international investors interested in supporting sustainable tourism projects.

Libya’s growing diplomatic efforts and international engagement with key tourism stakeholders will help secure funding, expertise, and technology to further develop the country’s tourism infrastructure while maintaining a commitment to environmental sustainability. This is crucial as Libya moves forward with plans to attract tourists and investors looking for destinations that prioritize green practices.

Long-Term Impact on Libya’s Tourism Industry

Looking to the future, the adoption of the Green and Circular Economy Policy is expected to have a transformative impact on Libya’s tourism sector. As international travelers increasingly seek eco-friendly destinations, Libya is poised to benefit from this growing trend by offering a sustainable tourism experience.

By integrating sustainable practices across all tourism-related sectors—from accommodation and transportation to visitor services—Libya can ensure that its tourism sector contributes to long-term economic prosperity without compromising the natural environment. The country’s efforts to promote eco-tourism, combined with its unique cultural and historical offerings, will attract a new generation of visitors who are conscious of their environmental footprint.

A Strong Future for Libya’s Sustainable Tourism

The Green and Circular Economy Policy marks, therefore, a landmark step for Libya to align the tourism sector with global trends in sustainability. With the sustainable tourism practices that the country is continuously embracing, it secures not only economic growth but also its natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations.

With a greater focus being directed toward ecotourism, circular economy principles, and worldwide partnerships, Libya will be in a strategic position to attract international tourists, especially those with interests in both the country’s rich history and commitment to sustainability. This policy will hence place Libya as an attractive destination for people who seek authentic, responsible, and eco-friendly travel experiences.