Saudi Arabia Hosts Inaugural National Greening Forum to Tackle Environmental Issues
As countries globally prioritize nature-based solutions to combat environmental challenges, Saudi Arabia took a significant step by organizing the first National Greening Forum in Riyadh. The event brought together experts to address pressing environmental issues.
Under the patronage of Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, the forum aimed to unify national efforts in enhancing vegetation cover and combating desertification. Minister of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing Majed Al-Hogail, along with other ministers, organizations, and specialists, attended the event.
CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, Khalid Al-Abdulqader, emphasized the importance of restoring green spaces in the Kingdom using sustainable methods and advanced technologies.
Nature-Based Solutions Discussed at Forum to Drive Transformation
During a panel discussion on “Nature-Based Solutions: Key to Transformation,” industry specialists and experts explored the environmental impact of natural tree growth and sustainable solutions for the future. Dr. Ahmed Al-Farhan highlighted the vital role of vegetation and afforestation in promoting sustainability and greening efforts.
Notably, Saudi Arabia has experienced a significant decrease in sandstorms, attributed to factors like rainfall and soil stabilization through vegetation. Jamaan Al-Qahtani from the Regional Center for Dust and Sandstorms discussed the impact of sandstorms on sustainable development goals and highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts to address these challenges.
Saudi Arabia’s Innovative Cloud Seeding Project Aims to Boost Rainfall
To address the growing demand for fresh water, Saudi Arabia launched a cloud seeding project in 2022. Ayman Al-Bar, the executive director of the Regional Cloud Seeding Program, explained how the initiative targets an increase in rainfall through innovative techniques. The program aims to intensify vegetation cover, combat desertification, and transfer knowledge for sustainable solutions.
Dr. Talal Al-Harigi emphasized the importance of nature reserves in capturing carbon and promoting soil rehabilitation. These reserves play a crucial role in enhancing vegetation cover and soil stability, contributing to sustainable environmental practices.
Saudi Arabia Leading the Way in Sustainable Solutions for Future Generations
As industries worldwide face the impacts of environmental degradation and climate change, Saudi Arabia has taken a proactive approach in creating sustainable solutions. The National Greening Forum highlighted the collaboration between public, private, and nonprofit sectors to achieve the Saudi Green Initiative’s target of planting 10 billion trees and fostering knowledge exchange among participating organizations.