NCVC Hosts Workshop To Advance Nature-Based Solutions For Carbon Credits In Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) recently organised a workshop titled "Carbon Credit for Nature-Based Solutions." This event, under the patronage of Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, aimed to enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts. The focus was on advancing Saudi Arabia's carbon market using nature-based solutions to address climate change.

Dr. Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Abdulkader, CEO of NCVC, highlighted the centre's dedication to promoting nature-based solutions through strategic partnerships. Collaborations include Singapore’s Carbon Capture Ltd., the International Carbon Registry (ICR), and global organisations like the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). These partnerships aim to drive progress in combating desertification and enhancing ecosystem resilience.

The NCVC has successfully planted approximately 135 million trees and rehabilitated 289,000 hectares of degraded land. These efforts have improved soil health, increased carbon storage capacity, and reduced desertification impacts. The initiatives also contribute to the Kingdom's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

The workshop explored how carbon markets can facilitate a transition towards a sustainable economy. Discussions focused on the environmental and financial benefits of these markets and strategies for enhancing project sustainability. Challenges and opportunities in expanding Saudi Arabia’s carbon market were also addressed.

Nature-based solutions are integral to carbon sequestration efforts globally. By restoring ecosystems, rehabilitating forests, reclaiming degraded lands, and enhancing biodiversity, these solutions support sustainability initiatives worldwide. "Carbon credit in the vegetation cover sector serves as a crucial tool in addressing climate change," stated the release.

Integration with Nature-Based Solutions

Participants examined how integrating nature-based solutions with carbon markets can maximise environmental and economic value. The role of policies, regulations, government support, and international cooperation in driving effective climate action was also discussed. This integration is vital for achieving objectives set by the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) and the Middle East Green Initiative.

The NCVC plays a pivotal role in developing, protecting, and restoring vegetation cover across Saudi Arabia. It oversees rangelands, forests, national parks, monitors violations against vegetation cover, combats illegal logging, and safeguards natural resources. These efforts aim to foster a thriving vegetation cover that enhances environmental sustainability.

The carbon credit program is essential for funding the National Greening Program. This initiative supports SGI's goals to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030 through the Circular Carbon Economy framework. The program also contributes significantly to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

Through its comprehensive efforts in preserving biodiversity and rehabilitating lands, NCVC continues to advance its vision of fostering resilient vegetation cover that promotes environmental sustainability while improving quality of life across Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA