Situated only 167 meters (approximately 0.1 miles) from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport , the landfill poses a significant danger to air travel. The garbage attracts large numbers of seagulls, increasing the risk of bird strikes. In January 2017, a plane encountered a large group of birds during takeoff, leading to temporary court orders to close the site, though it was eventually reopened and expanded.
Nearby residents have long complained of toxic odors and fumes from open waste burning, which activists link to rising health issues, including respiratory problems and cancer. The Film: " Costa Brava, Lebanon " (2021) The Saga of Mounia Akl's Costa Brava, Lebanon Costa Brava, Lebanon
The site has been a flashpoint for environmental activists due to its proximity to the sea. Reports indicate that waste has been dumped directly into the Mediterranean, violating the Barcelona Convention intended to protect the marine environment. This pollution has devastated local marine life, with dead sea turtles and contaminated fish frequently reported by local residents and fishermen. Situated only 167 meters (approximately 0