An initiative to rehabilitate Wadi Al-Sulai in Riyadh: 200 volunteers support the environment
In a move reflecting a growing commitment to environmental sustainability and improved quality of life, the Riyadh Municipality, represented by its Southern Sector, implemented a large-scale volunteer initiative to improve and rehabilitate the southern part of Wadi Al-Sulai. The initiative saw active community participation, with over 200 volunteers contributing to the preservation of this important natural landmark, which is increasingly popular among Riyadh residents as a desert and recreational destination.
General context and importance of Wadi Al-Sali
Wadi Al-Sulai is one of the largest and most important valleys traversing Riyadh, serving as a vital natural artery for draining rainwater and flash floods, as well as a green lung that helps moderate the climate. Historically, the valley has played a pivotal role in the region's ecosystem. With the rapid urban expansion Riyadh has witnessed over the past decades, the urgent need to protect these natural areas and integrate them into the urban fabric in a sustainable manner has become apparent. This initiative falls within a broader framework aligned with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , specifically programs such as "Green Riyadh" and the "Saudi Green Initiative," which aim to increase vegetation cover, combat desertification, and transform Saudi cities into more sustainable and attractive destinations.
Details of the initiative and its societal impact
The initiative brought together 50 high school students and 150 volunteers from the Philippine Green Saudi Arabia Initiative, reflecting the spirit of diversity and cooperation among various segments of society, both citizens and residents. This collaboration extended beyond physical effort, fostering a culture of volunteerism and shared social responsibility towards the environment. The volunteers' efforts resulted in the collection of approximately 9 tons of various types of waste, directly contributing to improving the visual and environmental landscape of the valley. The campaign also included awareness activities targeting visitors to the valley, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of public spaces and adhering to positive environmental practices.
Strategic importance and future impact
The importance of this initiative extends beyond its immediate results to encompass significant strategic dimensions. Locally , it contributes to raising environmental awareness among residents and provides clean and healthy natural spaces for recreation, thus enhancing the quality of life in southern Riyadh. Nationally , it serves as a practical model for activating community participation in achieving the environmental goals of Vision 2030. Internationally , these efforts highlight the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to sustainable cities and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems. The continuity of such initiatives ensures the transformation of Wadi Al-Sulai and other natural sites into sustainable environmental and cultural assets that serve current and future generations.
