Latest news with #NationalCenterForVegetationCover
Arab News
4 days ago
- General
- Arab News
Greening initiative sees 31m trees planted in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province
RIYADH: More than 31 million trees have been planted in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province as part of a nationwide afforestation project, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday. The trees were planted by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, working with 51 other entities, under a program launched in November. The authorities aim to plant 1.5 billion trees in the province by 2100, rehabilitating more than 7.9 million hectares of land. The scheme is part of the nationwide Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to plant 10 billion trees — 600 million by 2030 — and rehabilitate more than 40 million hectares of land. As well as planting trees, the center has been engaged in a program of environmental monitoring, combating illegal logging and raising public awareness across the Eastern Province. It also works to prevent sand encroachment in farming areas that are at risk of soil degradation and uses native plant species to populate its afforestation areas in order to maintain the ecological balance of local habitats. The center also organizes the National Afforestation Season in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.
Arab News
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Study outlines forest fire prevention plan
RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has completed a study to enhance forest protection and reduce wildfire risks in support of environmental sustainability goals. Titled 'Forest Fire Prevention and Post-Fire Recovery in the Southern and Southwestern Regions of Saudi Arabia,' the study was conducted in collaboration with King Khalid University and Monash University in Australia. It includes an assessment of forest conditions and risk factors, the development of a digital database, and a review of preventive measures and community practices, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. The study proposes an integrated response plan involving relevant agencies, with defined roles and the use of modern tools such as early warning systems and drones. It also offers field designs and sustainable alternatives for strategic firebreaks, a post-fire recovery guide, a performance evaluation tool, and a framework for joint operations. To support this, the study outlines a mechanism for engaging local volunteer teams in forest areas through training, capacity-building, and coordination with authorities. The study demonstrates institutional, technical, and community collaboration in forest protection. It reflects Saudi Arabia's efforts to preserve natural resources and address climate-related challenges while balancing development with ecosystem conservation. The national center continues to promote sustainable vegetation cover and has launched an initiative to plant 60 million trees — equivalent to restoring 300,000 hectares — by 2030.
Arab News
16-05-2025
- Arab News
Nature and progress thrive together in our geoparks
With two major projects — the North Riyadh and the Salma geoparks — Saudi Arabia is embarking on a transformative journey. These projects, woven into Vision 2030, are more than geological marvels; they are symbols of a Kingdom embracing its natural legacy while creating a sustainable future. As a country, we value the timeless beauty of our land and the opportunities these parks create by combining cultural celebration with environmental preservation. Imagine standing in a living museum, where each rock and ridge tells the story of Earth's past. Recently designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, the North Riyadh Geopark is a geological treasure — one that inspires the soul and dazzles the eye. Managed by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, this vast refuge boasts 20 unique geological sites, each a chapter in the story of our planet's evolution, its diversity, and the legacy of the Arabian Peninsula. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the park offers significant potential. Promoting environmental sustainability, water management, and agriculture — pillars that will help lead Saudi Arabia into a better future — it aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030. Here, sustainable tourism thrives, drawing visitors from around the world to witness nature's artistry and support the Kingdom's economic diversification. The center's careful oversight ensures that every step forward protects the land we treasure, preventing desertification and encouraging vegetation cover for future generations. Then there is Thadiq Village, a gem nestled within the heart of the park. Established in 1668 and known as the 'Mother of Guns,' Thadiq reflects our proud past and features ancient sites that honor the bravery of King Abdulaziz in founding our Kingdom. As a country, we value the timeless beauty of our land and the opportunities these parks create by combining cultural celebration with environmental preservation. Abdulelah Al-Nahari This blend of natural beauty and cultural richness offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with both the land and our heritage, a gift that elevates Saudi Arabia's global reputation. Look across to the Salma Geopark and you will find an outdoor paradise for those who seek it. Both dreamers and adventurers are drawn to this rugged haven, with its volcanic formations and hidden oases. Whether scaling rocky peaks, hiking sunlit trails, or gazing at a starlit sky, Salma Geopark provides moments that stir the spirit. It is a playground for diverse interests — hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching — where each experience offers an escape into nature's embrace. For Saudis, picnicking and camping are woven into our identity, not just pastimes. Salma Geopark reimagines these traditions in a modern way. Picture well-equipped campsites where families gather around glowing fires to share stories, blending comfort with the wild. The park also teaches and promotes sustainable practices that ensure our cherished customs endure. Salma reshapes our outdoor habits by fostering a deeper respect for the land, turning simple outings into meaningful experiences rooted in responsibility. But Salma is more than a retreat — it is a celebration of community. Local artists bring the park to life with handcrafted goods and traditional cuisine that spotlight Saudi culture. This vibrant exchange not only supports local businesses but also deepens our pride in our heritage — a living tribute to who we are. Under the guidance of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification — a force dedicated to preserving our natural wealth — both parks thrive through habitat restoration, water conservation, and tree planting. These efforts combat desertification and promote biodiversity, crucial steps toward a vibrant, sustainable Saudi Arabia. These are bold commitments to preserving beauty, seizing opportunity, and building a future where progress and nature walk hand in hand. These places tell our story and shape our destiny — and as we invite the world to witness this transformation, we stand prouder than ever. • Abdulelah Al-Nahari is a business and communications partner at a marketing solutions firm, leading strategic growth initiatives aligned with Saudi Arabia's digital-first vision.
Arab News
07-05-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia welcomes US-Houthi ceasefire deal
New land restoration guide to unify afforestation efforts RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has taken another step toward its ambitious afforestation goals with the publication of the official Land Restoration Guide for Non-Agricultural Areas. The guide is a comprehensive manual that will serve as a unified reference to direct environmental restoration projects across the Kingdom. It aims to ensure sustainable land management practices and support the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, one of which is to plant 10 billion trees — the equivalent of rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land. The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification announced its publication on Wednesday with an event titled 'The Road to Restoring 40 Million Hectares.' Organized under the national afforestation program, the event brought together a range of experts to align on best practices and scientific approaches to land rehabilitation. Sameer Maleakah, director of the center's afforestation department, highlighted the Kingdom's ambitious environmental restoration goals. 'So far, we've restored over 313,000 hectares across various regions of the Kingdom,' Maleakah told Arab News. 'But it's not just about planting. Restoration begins with protecting the degraded areas — those affected by overgrazing, illegal logging, or desertification caused by human activities. 'We return these areas to their natural state, and once restored, they foster biodiversity, richer vegetation and denser tree cover. These sites then serve as natural parks or forests — whether mountainous or valley-based,' he added. Maleakah also highlighted the importance of inclusive action. 'It's crucial to involve local communities, civil society organizations and take full advantage of existing legislation, rainfall and cloud-seeding technologies to ensure success.' The center's CEO, Dr. Khalid Al-Abdulkader, echoed the importance of the program in his opening remarks, saying that land restoration is not only vital for environmental sustainability, but also plays a major role in food security, combating climate change and supporting rural livelihoods. With more than 141 million trees planted to date and restoration efforts underway using rainfall and treated water, the center continues to position the afforestation program as a long-term investment in Saudi Arabia's ecological and developmental future.
Arab News
07-05-2025
- General
- Arab News
New land restoration guide to unify afforestation efforts
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has taken another step toward its ambitious afforestation goals with the publication of the official Land Restoration Guide for Non-Agricultural Areas. The guide is a comprehensive manual that will serve as a unified reference to direct environmental restoration projects across the Kingdom. It aims to ensure sustainable land management practices and support the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, one of which is to plant 10 billion trees — the equivalent of rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land. The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification announced its publication on Wednesday with an event titled 'The Road to Restoring 40 Million Hectares.' Organized under the national afforestation program, the event brought together a range of experts to align on best practices and scientific approaches to land rehabilitation. Sameer Maleakah, director of the center's afforestation department, highlighted the Kingdom's ambitious environmental restoration goals. 'So far, we've restored over 313,000 hectares across various regions of the Kingdom,' Maleakah told Arab News. 'But it's not just about planting. Restoration begins with protecting the degraded areas — those affected by overgrazing, illegal logging, or desertification caused by human activities. 'We return these areas to their natural state, and once restored, they foster biodiversity, richer vegetation and denser tree cover. These sites then serve as natural parks or forests — whether mountainous or valley-based,' he added. Maleakah also highlighted the importance of inclusive action. 'It's crucial to involve local communities, civil society organizations and take full advantage of existing legislation, rainfall and cloud-seeding technologies to ensure success.' The center's CEO, Dr. Khalid Al-Abdulkader, echoed the importance of the program in his opening remarks, saying that land restoration is not only vital for environmental sustainability, but also plays a major role in food security, combating climate change and supporting rural livelihoods. With more than 141 million trees planted to date and restoration efforts underway using rainfall and treated water, the center continues to position the afforestation program as a long-term investment in Saudi Arabia's ecological and developmental future.
