RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has announced the planting of over 95 million trees across Saudi Arabia since the launch of the Saudi Green Initiative in 2021. This large-scale afforestation effort is part of the broader strategy to enhance the country's ecological footprint and combat desertification. According to Saudi Press Agency, the NCVC highlighted the successful collaboration with various sectors, including government, private, and non-profit organizations, which has been crucial in reaching this milestone. The initiative has not only focused on planting trees but also on rehabilitating degraded vegetation cover. To date, the project has successfully rehabilitated approximately 111,000 hectares and protected around 4.3 million hectares of land that is currently undergoing rehabilitation. The Saudi Green Initiative, aligned with Vision 2030, aims to tackle environmental challenges, notably desertification, and climate change, while enh ancing the quality of life through sustainable practices. The initiative has also recorded 7.1 million cases of natural vegetation regeneration, indicating a positive trend in ecological restoration efforts. The NCVC's efforts extend beyond planting trees; they are actively involved in protecting and monitoring vegetation cover, addressing environmental violations, combating illegal logging, and managing rangelands, forests, and national parks sustainably. This comprehensive approach ensures the protection and sustainable management of the country's natural resources, securing a healthier environment for future generations. The involvement of 121 entities from public, private, and non-profit sectors underscores a nationwide commitment to achieving the goals set forth by the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in national development strategies.
