Riyadh,
Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz today inaugurated the fourth edition of the Saudi Green Initiative Forum.
The forum, themed “Action is in our Nature”, coincides with the 16th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16) held under the theme “Our Land, Our Future”.
This year’s forum brings together global experts, policymakers, business leaders, and specialists to discuss crucial topics such as land rehabilitation, utilizing innovations to cut carbon emissions, funding the green transition to support sustainable livelihoods, and leveraging natural solutions to help communities adapt to climate change. It also focuses on preserving the rich biodiversity of the Kingdom.
Over two days, the forum will showcase progress toward climate and environmental goals set in the Saudi Green Initiative. It will discuss action plans to combat desertification, accelerate land rehabilitation, and explore key trends in sustainability and cutting-edge environmental innovations aimed at creating a more sustainable future.
During COP16, the Saudi Green Initiative Gallery will provide visitors with an immersive experience, showcasing the Kingdom’s vision for sustainability and highlighting over 80 ongoing initiatives related to climate and environmental action. The gallery aims to engage all segments of society through interactive displays, 3D maps, and performance panels.
At the same time, the Saudi Green Initiative Talks will take place daily from December 5 to 13 at 3 pm at the gallery site. Experts and climate leaders from around the world will discuss prominent trends and innovations in sustainability.
The Saudi Green Initiative is focused on achieving three ambitious objectives to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability. One is reducing annual emissions by 278 million tons by 2030 through increased renewable energy capacity, development of carbon capture and storage technologies, and support for circular carbon economy innovations.
Another is afforesting the Kingdom with 10 billion trees, aimed at rehabilitating 74.8 million hectares of degraded land. So far, over 95 million trees have been planted, and 111,000 hectares of land have been rehabilitated.
The third goal entails ensuring that 30% of land and marine areas are protected by 2030, concentrating on the re-establishment of endangered wildlife.
— SPA
