Launching the initiative to sow seeds in private farms in Hail
In a strategic move aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and developing natural resources, the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification announced the launch of the first phase of the “Sowing Seeds on Private Farms” initiative in the Hail region, in close cooperation with the region’s governorate. This step comes as part of ongoing national efforts to achieve ecological balance and maximize the use of agricultural land.
Context of the initiative and Saudi Green goals
This initiative builds upon the successes of previous afforestation and seed-seeding projects and falls directly under the umbrella of the "Saudi Green Initiative," which aims to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom in the coming decades. These efforts are of paramount importance in light of global climate challenges, as the Kingdom seeks, through these programs, to combat desertification, reduce carbon emissions, and restore biodiversity in desert and mountainous environments.
Participation mechanism via the “Nabati” platform
The center extended an open invitation to farm owners in the Hail region to take advantage of this opportunity by registering for the service available on the “Nabati” platform. The center explained that sowing seeds on private holdings is not merely a traditional agricultural activity, but rather a strategic opportunity to transform these lands into productive ecosystems. This initiative focuses on producing carefully selected native forage plants suited to the soil and climate of the Hail region, ensuring their successful growth and sustainability with minimal water consumption.
Economic and environmental dimensions of the initiative
The initiative holds tangible economic and developmental benefits, as the plans include planting native shrubs and herbs with multiple uses. In addition to their role in stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion, these plants constitute an important source of natural fodder, supporting the livestock sector and reducing import costs. Furthermore, some species can be utilized in the medicinal and aromatic industries. This approach enhances the efficiency of agricultural land use and increases farmers' economic returns, thereby contributing to national food security.
The future of the initiative and Vision 2030
The National Center for Vegetation Development confirmed that the selection of the Hail region as the starting point for the first phase is due to its unique geographical and agricultural characteristics. The experiment is scheduled to undergo a comprehensive evaluation at the end of the agricultural season, encompassing technical and environmental aspects, as a prelude to expanding the model to the rest of the Kingdom. These integrated efforts aim to achieve the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in creating a sustainable environment, protecting vegetation from encroachment, regulating grazing, and combating illegal logging, thus ensuring a green future for generations to come.
