Afforestation Technologies Forum 2023 Kicks Off In Riyadh With Over 120 Global Participants

The second annual International Exhibition and Forum for Afforestation Technologies commenced on Monday in Riyadh's "COP16" Zone. Organised by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), it will run until December 13. Government ministers, along with NCVC Chief Executive Dr. Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Abdulkader, visited both local and international participants in the Green Zone.

Dr. Al-Abdulkader briefed officials on the NCVC’s initiatives and technologies addressing environmental challenges. He stressed Saudi Arabia's leadership in environmental conservation and vegetation cover development, driven by a strategy focused on sustainability, quality of life, and human well-being. The Kingdom is making a global impact through innovative environmental initiatives aimed at combating desertification and promoting biodiversity.

The exhibition has attracted significant international attention, featuring around 120 governmental, private, and non-profit organisations from various countries. Major local and global commercial companies are also participating. This event coincides with the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), marking its first occurrence in the Middle East.

Exhibition areas display advanced technologies used in agricultural and irrigation operations globally. They also highlight innovative environmental initiatives and afforestation strategies implemented by partnering organisations. Workshops are included to facilitate experience exchange and learning from other countries' practices, contributing to sustainability and natural resource development.

The forum will conclude with discussion sessions starting Friday, December 6. These sessions will explore 14 topics such as leading afforestation initiatives, community involvement in projects, sustainable water management in arid regions, international experiences, and land degradation prevention. These discussions align with the exhibition's strategic objectives.

This event serves as a platform for officials, experts, specialists, and global think tanks to gather under one roof. It allows them to exchange knowledge through sessions discussing comprehensive topics related to afforestation technologies. The aim is to create a common ground for building a sustainable community through afforestation efforts.

Dr. Al-Abdulkader highlighted the leadership’s dedication to fostering environmental protection efforts by hosting such exhibitions and forums. These events provide opportunities to share expertise and learn from other nations’ experiences, aiding sustainability and natural resource development.

With inputs from SPA