Riyadh: National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) CEO Dr. Khaled Al-Abdulkader and King Saud University Vice President for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research Prof. Yazeed Al-Asheikh inaugurated a project titled "Assessment of Water Requirements and the Use of Soil Amendments to Optimize Water Consumption, and the Impact of Vegetation Cover Conservation and Protection on Carbon Storage Across Different Ecosystems in Saudi Arabia."

According to Saudi Press Agency, this project aims to maximize the sustainable use and conservation of water resources in the targeted study areas, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals. It will estimate the water requirements of native trees and shrubs, such as Haloxylon persicum, Ziziphus spina-christi, Calligonum comosum, and Vachellia gerrardii, and evaluate the impact of biochar application on water use efficiency and the sustainable growth of these species in Riyadh and Qassim regions.

The project will also assess the carbon storage potential of native plant species in Riyadh and Qassim, as well as mangrove trees in Aseer and Jazan, across various ecosystems. During the launch ceremony, the project team presented the project's objectives, implementation phases, and expected outcomes. Field visits to various study sites have already begun to identify representative locations and plant communities within the targeted ecosystems.

The NCVC continues to implement initiatives, programs, and projects to establish a sustainable vegetation cover throughout the Kingdom. Its work includes conserving, rehabilitating, and developing natural ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, managing and investing in rangelands and national parks, monitoring violations affecting vegetation, combating illegal logging, and safeguarding natural resources. These efforts support the center's vision of achieving a rich vegetation cover that enhances environmental sustainability and improves quality of life.