Local plants of Asir: 165 species supporting the Saudi Green Initiative
The National Afforestation Program has revealed a new environmental achievement reflecting the unique natural diversity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the identification of more than 165 native plant species suitable for afforestation projects in the Asir region. This step is a key pillar of national efforts aimed at developing vegetation cover and combating desertification, in full alignment with the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Geographical diversity in Asir: a natural incubator for plant life
The Asir region boasts exceptional geographical and climatic characteristics, making it one of the Kingdom's richest areas in terms of biodiversity. From the towering peaks of the Sarawat Mountains that seem to touch the clouds, through the fertile slopes and valleys, to the Tihama plains and the Red Sea coast, diverse environments exist, allowing for the growth of a wide array of plants. This environmental diversity is not accidental; rather, it is a result of the region's temperate climate and the highest rainfall in the Kingdom, making it an ideal environment for sustainable afforestation projects.
The most prominent discovered plant families and species
The program explained that the observed species are distributed across diverse environments, including mountainous regions, plains, rocky environments, and coastal areas. These plants have been classified into various families, most notably:
- Main families: Legumes, Pistacia, Acanthaceae, Apocynaceae, Asparagus, Compound, Cypress, and Olive.
- Types of trees and shrubs: The list includes perennial trees and succulent shrubs such as juniper, acacia, Najdi acacia, tamarisk, tamarisk, and lebbeck.
- Plants of coastal areas and valleys: such as mangrove trees that grow on the coasts, arak trees, and sea grass.
- Aromatic and aesthetic plants: such as wild jasmine, henna, and basil (mastic).
Strategic and environmental importance
This discovery is not merely a matter of species identification; it has profound strategic implications. Using native plants in afforestation projects ensures the sustainability of vegetation cover, given these species' adaptation to local climatic conditions and their limited water requirements compared to imported plants. This also contributes to:
- Reducing land degradation: stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion, especially in mountainous areas and slopes.
- Promoting ecological balance: Providing natural habitats for wildlife and birds.
- Supporting ecotourism: Preserving the stunning natural landscapes for which Asir is famous, thus enhancing its status as a global tourist destination.
Community partnership for a green future
The National Afforestation Program continues to lead intensive efforts to enhance community participation, calling on the public, private, and non-profit sectors to contribute to afforestation initiatives. Through these partnerships, the program aims to raise environmental awareness and promote a culture of volunteerism, ensuring that afforestation becomes a shared responsibility aimed at protecting the Kingdom's environment for future generations.
