Saudi Arabia Highlights Diverse Forests On International Day Of Forests

To commemorate the International Day of Forests, Saudi Arabia is hosting a pivotal event at the ROSHN Front in Riyadh on March 21, under the theme "Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World". This occasion is set to spotlight the kingdom's vast and varied forested areas, which boast 97 tree species across 2.7 million hectares. Spanning three days, the event aims to illuminate the diverse forest types nestled in Saudi Arabia’s mountains, valleys, and coastal ecosystems.

The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has taken this opportunity to reveal its National Forest Strategy. This strategy is a cornerstone of the National Transformation Program, designed to fulfill the goals of the National Environment Strategy and the Saudi Green Initiative. It is built on six key pillars: an afforestation plan, an institutional framework and forest governance, a forest conservation and rehabilitation program, a forest monitoring and evaluation program, a community participation program, and financing mechanisms.

Saudi Arabia's forests are not only vital for ecological balance but also play a significant role in supporting local communities and fostering economic growth. The NCVC has adopted a comprehensive approach to strategy development by involving a wide array of stakeholders. This includes government bodies, academic institutions, research centers, NGOs, and local communities, aiming to foster knowledge exchange in forest management, conservation, and protection.

Moreover, the NCVC is undertaking forest surveys to better understand plant types, density, and health. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance vegetation cover, tackle pest issues and invasive species, and boost carbon storage capabilities as part of climate change mitigation strategies. The center is committed to planting 60 million trees and rehabilitating 300,000 hectares of forest and valley land as part of its sustainability efforts.

In its quest for sustainable forest management, NCVC has introduced regulations that include prohibiting grazing in protected areas. This measure is crucial for the protection, conservation, and development of forests across the nation. Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to demonstrate its commitment to preserving its natural heritage while contributing to global environmental goals.

With inputs from SPA