IUCN West Asia Conservation Forum Wraps Up With Strategic Environmental Moves

The 10th International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Regional Conservation Forum for West Asia concluded in Riyadh on Wednesday. The event, organised by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), spanned three days and included dynamic discussions and workshops. It was held under the patronage of Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, who also chairs the NCW board.

During the forum, Saudi Arabia unveiled its Protected Areas System Plan. This plan aims to establish and manage protected areas to meet the "30 x 30" target set in 2021. The goal is to protect 30% of the Kingdom's terrestrial and marine areas by 2030, aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative.

The forum featured numerous sessions addressing critical environmental issues. Topics included biodiversity restoration, nature-based solutions, and incorporating protected areas into the IUCN Green List. Participants discussed modern innovations and technologies in conservation efforts.

Participants stressed the interconnectedness of water, energy, food security, and ecosystems. They highlighted the importance of engaging local communities in ecosystem restoration initiatives. The aim is to achieve ecological representation of 30% in various environments by 2030 while enhancing climate change adaptation capabilities.

The forum also examined sustainable land management practices to ensure sustainable food production and efficient water management. Strategies to combat land degradation and desertification were discussed as part of sustainable development goals.

Marine Environment Solutions

Opportunities and solutions for marine environments were a significant focus. Discussions centred on reducing marine ecosystem degradation and overfishing through innovative strategies. Collaborative approaches for effective marine governance were also highlighted.

Economic impacts of environmental degradation were another key topic. Mechanisms for carbon sequestration and expanding renewable energy systems were explored as part of broader conservation efforts.

Forum's Role in Conservation Efforts

"This forum serves as an effective platform for knowledge exchange," said NCW Chief Executive Dr. Mohammed Qurban. "It enhances nature conservation and preserves biodiversity." He added that it provides an opportunity for consultation ahead of next year's World Conservation Congress.

"We closely monitored discussions on regional participation in the global congress," Dr. Qurban continued. "The quality action plans presented reflect collective efforts' effectiveness in environmental protection." He expressed optimism about achieving tangible results that bolster international environmental stewardship efforts.

The IUCN Regional Conservation Forum is held every four years, hosted by one of its 13 member countries. It serves as a significant platform for advancing conservation efforts across the region.

The event saw participation from notable figures such as Egyptian Minister of Environment Dr. Yasmin Fouad and IUCN president Razan Al Mubarak. Over 200 experts from IUCN member organisations and various stakeholders attended.

With inputs from SPA