Royal Commission For AlUla Successfully Plants 500,000 Trees To Support Saudi Green Initiative Goals

The Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla is undergoing a significant transformation with the planting of 500,000 trees and shrubs. This initiative aims to rejuvenate native ecosystems. The Royal Commission of AlUla (RCU) spearheaded this large-scale ecological restoration project. It aligns with Saudi Arabia's ambitious goal to plant 10 billion trees under the Saudi Green Initiative.

Throughout November, community members, students, and RCU staff collaborated to achieve this milestone. They planted native species, using seeds sourced from AlUla and cultivated at RCU’s nursery. This effort enhances soil quality, water retention, and nutrient availability. It also provides food for newly introduced herbivores.

RCU's restoration work supports the Saudi Green Initiative's objectives. It complements an ongoing rewilding program that has released over 1,000 native animals into four protected reserves in AlUla. These efforts aim to restore natural habitats and promote biodiversity.

The initiative focuses on "greening Saudi Arabia" and "protecting the land and sea." These goals reflect RCU’s dedication to sustainability across environmental, agricultural, cultural, social, and economic domains.

Within Sharaan Nature Reserve lies a 100-hectare pilot project. This project is part of a collaboration between RCU and SGI. It explores different methods for ecological rehabilitation in arid regions.

Dr. Stephen Browne, RCU Wildlife and Natural Heritage VP, stated: "RCU is restoring the power of nature’s balance to safeguard AlUla’s natural and cultural heritage and conserve our precious environment. Planting 500,000 trees and shrubs is a major contribution to the Kingdom’s climate goals that seek to safeguard and protect natural landscapes and vulnerable ecosystems."

Community Involvement in Environmental Goals

The regeneration of AlUla’s diverse habitats is a key ambition for RCU. This includes its valleys, mountains, oases, flora, and fauna. The initiative also focuses on engaging the local community by enhancing their skills and involvement in these projects.

AlUla's Sharaan Nature Reserve serves as a model for ecological restoration efforts in Saudi Arabia. The successful planting of half a million trees marks a significant step towards achieving broader environmental goals within the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA