Founding Day: Distribution of seedlings to promote environmental sustainability in Saudi Arabia
In a symbolic gesture combining pride in the deep historical roots of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with aspirations for a green and sustainable future, the offices of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the governorates of Al-Qunfudhah, Khulais, and Al-Kamil celebrated the anniversary of the Kingdom's founding through a unique community-based environmental initiative. The initiative involved distributing more than 900 seedlings to citizens and residents, a step aimed at strengthening environmental awareness and linking national identity to action for environmental protection.
Historical background: Founding day and the roots of the Saudi state
Saudis celebrate National Day on February 22nd each year, commemorating the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This national occasion is a reminder of three centuries of rich history, marked by the establishment of a strong state based on the principles of unity, security, and stability. The celebration of this anniversary is not limited to ceremonial displays; it extends to initiatives that reflect the state's core values, including a deep connection to the land and a commitment to its development, as exemplified by this tree-planting initiative.
Details of the initiative and its community goals
The initiative was implemented through the establishment of informational and interactive booths in public spaces and participation in community events and Ramadan tents, in cooperation with NGOs. Seedlings were distributed to attendees of these events, along with guidance on the importance of planting trees and how to care for the plants. The ministry offices emphasized that these activities are an extension of their community role in instilling national values, raising awareness of the importance of environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources, and engaging community members as active partners in building a sustainable future.
The importance of the initiative in the context of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative
This local initiative cannot be viewed in isolation from broader national trends. It aligns directly with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability and improving quality of life. It also contributes practically to achieving the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, the ambitious national project that aims to plant billions of trees across the Kingdom to combat desertification, develop vegetation cover, and mitigate the effects of climate change. The distribution of 900 saplings in these governorates represents a small but impactful part of this massive national effort and promotes a culture of tree planting at the grassroots level.
Expected impact: From local awareness to national sustainability
This initiative is expected to have multiple positive impacts. Locally, it will contribute to increasing green spaces in the governorates of Al-Qunfudhah, Khulais, and Al-Kamil, and strengthen social bonds through collaborative work. Nationally, it will support efforts to achieve environmental and water security and embody effective partnership between the government sector and the community. Planting a tree on the anniversary of the founding of the nation carries profound significance, symbolizing the instilling of values of belonging and loyalty to the land and the homeland, and contributing to its growth and prosperity for future generations.
