Saudi Arabia Highlights National Efforts For Forest Sustainability At UN Forum On Forests

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is actively participating in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) at the UN Headquarters in New York City. This forum gathers delegations and experts in environmental and forestry fields from around the world. Dr. Najeeb Alsubhi, leading the Saudi delegation, delivered a national statement during the opening session.

Dr. Alsubhi highlighted Saudi Arabia's initiatives to protect and develop forests both locally and regionally. He stressed the importance of international cooperation for sustainable forest ecosystems worldwide. The UN Forum on Forests is a key platform for discussions on forest protection, development, and sustainability.

Saudi Arabia's involvement in UNFF20 reflects its dedication to preserving vegetation cover and addressing environmental challenges. The Kingdom aims to lead in forest development and sustainability efforts. It acknowledges forests' role in combating desertification, climate change, reducing temperatures, and enhancing biodiversity as part of broader sustainable goals.

During the second session on the first day, Dr. Saleh Alzamanan from the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) emphasized empowering local communities. He discussed aligning sustainable forest benefits with environmental objectives.

The NCVC is organizing a side event this Wednesday with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This event will highlight Saudi Arabia's efforts in forest protection and development while promoting global cooperation for forest sustainability.

The NCVC leads initiatives to enhance sustainable forest vegetation across Saudi Arabia. A significant project is the "Grow 60 Million Trees" initiative, aiming to rehabilitate 300,000 hectares by 2030. This ambitious plan underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to environmental conservation.

Regulations Supporting Forest Conservation

The Executive Regulation for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification is enforced by NCVC, focusing on Article Six related to forests. This regulation requires preparing a national sustainable forest management plan and regulating grazing activities within forests.

The UN Forum on Forests aims to promote sustainable management of forests, conserve natural resources, balance economic development with environmental sustainability, monitor progress towards the UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030, reverse global forest loss, expand protected areas, and strengthen forests' role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Saudi Arabia's participation highlights its commitment to these objectives while showcasing its leadership in addressing pressing environmental issues through innovative initiatives like "Grow 60 Million Trees." By fostering collaboration with international bodies like FAO at events such as UNFF20, Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in advancing global efforts towards sustainable forest management.

With inputs from SPA