Riyadh: National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) CEO Dr. Khaled Al-Abdulkader emphasized that land rehabilitation is not merely an environmental luxury but rather a national necessity and a strategic investment. He stated that it is crucial for addressing environmental challenges and building a better life for future generations. This includes confronting climate change, achieving food security, improving soil fertility, increasing vegetation cover, and supporting biodiversity.

According to Saudi Press Agency, these remarks were made during his opening speech at a workshop organized by NCVC yesterday in Riyadh, titled “Towards Achieving the Target of Rehabilitating 40 Million Hectares of Degraded Land.” Al-Abdulkader highlighted that the Saudi Green Initiative marks a significant advancement in the national environmental agenda. He noted its ambitious goal of planting 10 billion trees, which equates to the rehabilitation of approximately 40 million hectares of degraded land.

The event also saw the launch of the Land Rehabilitation Guide for Non-Agricultural Areas in Saudi Arabia. This guide serves as a scientific and practical reference that unifies concepts and guides projects in accordance with best approved practices. It aims to support the efficient use of resources and ensure the environmental sustainability of rehabilitation efforts across the Kingdom’s diverse environments.