Investing In Rangelands Is Essential For Achieving Environmental Sustainability, Says UNCCD COP16 President

Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley, the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, emphasised the importance of investing in rangelands for environmental sustainability. As president of the 16th session of the UNCCD COP16, he highlighted that rangelands are crucial for ecological balance, livestock feed, and global food security. These lands cover 54% of the Earth's surface and play a significant role in rural employment.

During a COP16 session focused on rangeland protection and rehabilitation, Alfadley warned about the risks posed by rangeland degradation. He stated that this degradation threatens one-sixth of global food supplies and could deplete one-third of Earth's carbon reserves. Approximately 2 billion people living in pastoral areas face increased risks due to resource degradation and drought.

The Global Land Outlook report by UNCCD highlights that up to half of the world's rangelands are at risk of degradation. This makes sustainable investment in their restoration urgent to achieve land degradation neutrality. Alfadley stressed that targeted investments can help meet several UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as combating land degradation and enhancing food security.

Alfadley reiterated Saudi Arabia's dedication to sustainable development through rangeland investment. Rangelands cover 75% of Saudi Arabia's area, reflecting its natural heritage. Guided by Vision 2030, the Kingdom has launched a national plan for rangeland development. This includes initiatives to rehabilitate degraded lands and ensure resource sustainability.

The minister highlighted efforts to adopt innovative land improvement techniques and implement projects for rangeland restoration. These initiatives are supported by improved agricultural practices and livestock management. Community support is also provided through training programs aimed at building local capacity for sustainable rangeland use.

International Cooperation

Alfadley called for enhanced international cooperation to protect and restore rangelands sustainably. He emphasised supporting pastoral communities to meet their development needs while advancing scientific research related to modern rangeland management practices.

The minister noted that policies encouraging investment are essential for creating a stable business environment that balances investor and herder needs. Saudi Arabia remains committed to further discussions on this critical issue during its presidency of COP16 until COP17 in Mongolia.

"Saudi Arabia has long recognized the importance of investing in rangelands as part of its commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection," Alfadley said.

With inputs from SPA