NEFRC Engages Experts In Second Day Of Workshops And Discussions On Environmental Sustainability

The 27th session of the Near East Forestry and Range Commission (NEFRC) is taking place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This event is co-organised by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC). Representatives from 27 countries are participating in this gathering.

On the second day, discussions and workshops were held to promote cooperation and joint efforts for environmental sustainability. One workshop, "Ecosystems as Investment: Returns, Pathways, and Co-Financing Opportunities," focused on bridging the financing gap in ecosystem restoration investments. It examined how this gap affects land degradation and food security.

Participants explored innovative financing methods such as green bonds and carbon markets. They also discussed the roles of sovereign wealth funds and development banks. The aim was to increase financial support tailored to different countries' needs, aligning with regional investment framework goals.

The workshop also looked at overcoming barriers for investors by reframing restoration projects as profitable ventures with measurable returns. This approach aims to attract more investment into ecosystem restoration efforts.

Another workshop titled "Integration between National Initiatives and Royal Reserves to Achieve Environmental Sustainability" reviewed efforts in vegetation cover rehabilitation. Focus was placed on achievements within the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve and the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve.

This session highlighted natural regeneration successes and discussed the Middle East Green Initiative. This initiative is recognised as a leading regional effort with significant environmental, economic, and social benefits for both the region and globally.

Community Participation

The importance of community involvement was emphasised as a key factor in achieving sustainable development. Training programs for local herders were highlighted alongside encouragement for environmental volunteering initiatives.

These measures aim to strengthen community participation as an active partner in sustainability efforts. Such involvement is crucial for long-term success in environmental conservation projects.

The NEFRC session continues to provide a platform for exchanging ideas and strategies among experts and country delegations. The focus remains on enhancing cooperation to achieve shared environmental goals effectively.

With inputs from SPA