Saudi Arabia Unveils Riyadh Action Agenda To Enhance Land Restoration And Drought Resilience

Saudi Arabia has introduced the Riyadh Action Agenda, a significant initiative aimed at addressing land degradation, desertification, and drought. This was announced by Dr. Osama Faqeeha, Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, during a high-level dialogue on sustainable agri-food systems. The agenda seeks to engage various stakeholders over two years to promote effective environmental actions.

The launch coincided with Agri-food System Day at COP16 in Riyadh, one of seven thematic days dedicated to focused discussions. Agriculture is a major contributor to land degradation, deforestation, and greenhouse-gas emissions. According to the UNCCD, agriculture is responsible for 23% of emissions and 80% of deforestation globally. Events throughout the day explored solutions to these challenges.

During the event, discussions highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural practices. Topics included enhancing soil health, developing resilient crops, and ensuring nutritious food availability. The importance of private-sector involvement in transforming food systems was also emphasized. These discussions took place on World Soil Day, which promotes sustainable soil management worldwide.

Dr. Faqeeha stressed the critical role of soil in food production: "Around 95% of our food comes from the soil, and yet we continue to treat it like dirt." He warned that unsustainable practices are leading to severe land degradation, with 24 billion tons of fertile soil lost annually. This contributes significantly to global food and water insecurity.

The UNCCD predicts that by 2050, crop yields could decrease by 10% globally and up to 50% in severely affected areas. This decline could result in a 30% rise in food prices amid increasing demand due to population growth. Dr. Faqeeha suggested that redirecting harmful agricultural subsidies could provide immediate financial support for land restoration efforts.

Dr. Faqeeha emphasized the urgency of continuing efforts beyond COP16: "If we are to accelerate land restoration and drought resilience initiatives at the pace and scale required, then it is critical we continue to mobilize and incentivize action long after COP16 in Riyadh ends." This statement underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to leading global change in land restoration.

The Riyadh Action Agenda aims to build on COP16's momentum by engaging diverse environmental stakeholders over Saudi Arabia’s presidency term. The initiative seeks tangible actions benefiting everyone from farmers to indigenous communities. By fostering collaboration among state and non-state actors, it hopes to leave a lasting impact on global environmental efforts.

With inputs from SPA