Saudi Arabia Leading Efforts in Afforestation and Climate Change Adaptation in the MENA Region

To address the challenges of desertification and climate change adaptation in Saudi Arabia, the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) is taking a leading and pivotal role. The importance of afforestation and plantation in mitigating climate change cannot be overstated, hence one of the Action Hub panel discussions at the MENA Climate Week shed light on the significant contributions of NCVC in this area. 

Theresa Wong, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Natural Resources Officer (Climate) and FAO Team Leader moderated the panel discussion which mainly focused on the role of NCVC in promoting afforestation and the challenges of adapting to climate change in Saudi Arabia. The panelists, comprised of esteemed experts and key figures in the field, Dr. Khaled Abdullah Al-Abdul Qadir, CEO of NCVC, Eng. Ahmad Alanazi, General Manager of the Afforestation Programme at NCVC, and Dr. Ayman Omer, Programme Director of FAO Programme in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, shared their insights and perspectives on the topic. 

Saudi Arabia leadership in addressing climate change adaptation 

In his opening remarks, Dr. Khaled Abdullah Al-Abdul Qadir emphasized the importance of tackling climate change adaptation challenges and combating desertification. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's leadership role in advancing global environmental sustainability, particularly through the implementation of the G20 Global Initiative on Habitat Restoration aimed at reducing land degradation and safeguarding terrestrial habitats. 

Dr. Khaled further illustrated Saudi Arabia's regional efforts in spearheading the Middle East Green Initiative (MGI), which aims to plant 50 billion trees and restore land equivalent to rehabilitating 200 million hectares in member countries of the MGI. At the national level, the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) focuses on wide range of climate actions including land rehabilitation, reducing GHG emissions, and promoting the widespread adoption of clean energy throughout the Kingdom. 

NCVC ‘s Strong Advocacy in Addressing Climate Adaptation Challenges 

Eng. Ahmad Alanazi discussed the efforts of NCVC in promoting sustainable plantation practices. He highlighted the commitment of the Center to afforestation programmes and plantation initiatives in Saudi Arabia. He added that NCVC studies and explores successful climate adaptation programmes and collaborate with communities to introduce innovative technologies and promote good practices. Alanazi emphasized the importance of planting suitable and native species that can withstand the country's harsh weather conditions. NCVC's initiatives aim to diversify tree species and enhance resilience and adaptability to changing climates. 

He observed that these efforts contribute to a greener and more sustainable future in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. By leveraging partnerships, innovation, and community involvement, NCVC continues to make significant strides in combating desertification, enhancing vegetation cover, and advancing climate change adaptation in Saudi Arabia. 

Saudi Arabia dedication and political commitment 

Dr Ayman Omer agreed with the statements of Dr. Khaled and Eng Ahmad, emphasizing the crucial role played by Saudi Arabia in promoting sustainability, environmental protection, and climate change action. He acknowledged the strong leadership, dedication, and political commitment of the Kingdom in driving these initiatives forward with the Kingdom emerging as a leading advocate for the environment.  Through many environmental initiatives, Saudi Arabia is collaborating with neighboring countries and the global community to foster collective efforts to address critical environmental challenges. 

For example, through sustainable urban planning and development practices, the Kingdom is actively shaping environmentally conscious urban spaces. These efforts exemplify Saudi Arabia's dedication to long-term environmental stewardship and sustainable development. 

Saudi Arabia is bridging golden opportunities beyond borders 

Ayman concluded by observing that Saudi Arabia's commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond its borders and has opened golden opportunities for other countries in the region. These opportunities allow the region to build strong commitment on the environment and enhanced their capacity for climate action. By promoting openness, sharing, and learning, the region is establishing itself as a region of excellence for climate action in a climate challenging environment.