Rehabilitating 4.7 million hectares of floodplains and meadows to enhance vegetation cover
The National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification continues its tireless efforts in implementing an ambitious initiative aimed at developing and rehabilitating the Al-Fayyad and Al-Riyadh areas, as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's endeavors to preserve its natural resources and enhance their sustainability. This step comes in recognition of the pivotal role these sites play in maintaining ecological balance and supporting the local economy.
A wide range of qualifications and ambitious targets
The center announced that the targeted area within the Al-Fayyad and Al-Riyadh regions is estimated at approximately 4.7 million hectares of natural land. The initiative relies on a comprehensive strategy that includes planting native trees and shrubs suitable for the desert environment, as well as sowing seeds of rangeland plants to enhance biodiversity. The plans also include implementing advanced engineering techniques for rainwater harvesting, ensuring the availability of water resources necessary for the sustainability of vegetation cover, along with enforcing strict site protection measures to prevent encroachment.
National context and future vision
This initiative is particularly important as it aligns with the objectives of the "Saudi Green Initiative" and the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental protection and combating climate change. The wadis and ravines are among the most important natural features of the Arabian Peninsula, formed over thousands of years by flash floods, making them a strategic reserve of biodiversity and a haven for wildlife.
Environmental and economic importance
The center noted that these natural environments play a crucial role in carbon storage, contributing to the Kingdom's efforts to reduce global carbon emissions. They also act as natural barriers, limiting sand encroachment and mitigating the severity of dust storms that affect cities. Economically, these lands are essential for meeting livestock needs, as well as providing an ideal environment for beekeeping and producing high-quality honey, and supporting investment in medicinal and aromatic plants.
Geographical diversity and natural richness
The plains and meadows are characterized by their deep, fertile clay soil, rich in organic matter transported by flash floods, making them ideal locations for agriculture. The Kingdom boasts over a thousand plains and meadows, ranging in size from small basins to vast expanses spanning thousands of hectares. Most of these sites are concentrated in the central and northeastern regions of the Kingdom, with Rawdat Khuraim, Al-Tanhat, Al-Khafs, the Al-Saman plains, and Al-Hajrah being among the most famous destinations for ecotourism and nature enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the National Center for Vegetation Development affirms its full commitment to protecting and monitoring these natural resources, rehabilitating degraded areas, and combating illegal logging, to ensure a green and sustainable future for generations to come.
