Vegetation receives 3 ISO certifications in risk and crisis management
In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to applying the highest institutional quality standards in its environmental sectors, the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification has achieved a qualitative accomplishment by obtaining three international and local accreditation certificates in vital areas including business continuity, risk management, and emergency and crisis management.
The center's efforts culminated in obtaining the international accreditation certificate for its Business Continuity Management System (ISO 22301), in addition to two certifications for implementing the guiding standards of both ISO 31000 (Risk Management) and ISO 22361 (Emergency and Crisis Management). This achievement reinforces the center's position as a leading entity operating according to global methodologies to ensure operational readiness under various circumstances.
Implications of timing and strategic importance
This achievement is particularly significant given the unprecedented environmental movement underway in the Kingdom, where the National Center for Vegetation Development is leading massive initiatives within the "Saudi Green Initiative," which aims to plant 10 billion trees over the coming decades. Managing a project of this national and regional scale requires a robust institutional structure capable of anticipating and effectively addressing environmental and operational risks.
The center’s attainment of the ISO 31000 risk management certification reflects maturity in strategic planning, as these standards enable the center to identify potential challenges, whether climatic, such as drought and fires, or administrative and operational, and to develop proactive scenarios to address them before they occur, thus ensuring the protection of natural resources and national assets.
Enhancing preparedness for emergencies and crises
In a related context, the Emergency and Crisis Management certification (ISO 22361) is a cornerstone of the center's work, given the nature of its fieldwork in forests, national parks, and reserves. This standard ensures the existence of rapid and effective response protocols for dealing with natural disasters or environmental emergencies, thus minimizing losses and accelerating recovery and the restoration of vital services.
Sustainability and governance in line with Vision 2030
The center emphasized that these certifications are not merely honorary documents, but rather part of a comprehensive strategy to solidify the concepts of sustainability and implement effective governance. This approach aligns directly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program, which focus on enhancing the efficiency of government performance and building resilient institutions capable of adapting to changes.
This commitment to international standards is expected to contribute to enhancing international confidence in the Kingdom’s efforts to combat desertification, and attract global partnerships and investments in the environmental sector, as institutional readiness and risk management are among the most important indicators that international organizations consider when evaluating partners.
In conclusion, the National Center for Vegetation Development continues its efforts to protect and develop plant resources, relying on a solid administrative structure that ensures business continuity and achieves sustainable development for future generations.
