Riyadh, December 7, 2024 — The second annual International Exhibition and Forum for Afforestation Technologies was officially inaugurated today in the "COP16" Zone in Riyadh, under the auspices of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC). This key event, which aligns with the ongoing COP16 conference, highlights Saudi Arabia's dedication to advancing environmental sustainability and addressing global environmental challenges.
The opening ceremony was led by Dr. Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Abdulkader, Chief Executive of the NCVC, who emphasized the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development across all sectors, particularly in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Dr. Al-Abdulkader noted that the forum is a significant platform for international collaboration, bringing together experts, innovators, and policymakers to discuss groundbreaking solutions for afforestation, combating desertification, and protecting natural ecosystems.
“This forum is held alongside COP16, one of the most influential global environmental conferences, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in tackling issues like desertification and land degradation,” Dr. Al-Abdulkader remarked. He also pointed out that this year’s edition is the largest in COP’s history, with 197 countries, 1,000 speakers, and 300 exhibitors participating in discussions that span environmental and technological innovations.
One of the most notable highlights of the conference is the introduction of the "Green Zone" — a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to engage the public with environmental education through exhibitions organized by government bodies, private companies, local environmental organizations, and cultural and entertainment activities. This innovative space aims to raise awareness on pressing environmental matters and foster a deeper connection between the general public and nature conservation efforts.
Dr. Al-Abdulkader also underscored Saudi Arabia's pioneering role in global environmental protection, citing the success of the Saudi Green Initiative, which has set ambitious goals to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. The Kingdom has already planted over 100 million trees and rehabilitated 250,000 hectares, demonstrating its dedication to making meaningful progress in combating desertification and enhancing the quality of life both locally and internationally.
The International Forum on Afforestation Technologies serves as a dynamic hub for experts and decision-makers to exchange knowledge, foster cooperation, and discuss innovative approaches to afforestation and vegetation cover development. The forum features 11 key themes, including sustainable water management for afforestation projects, the application of modern technologies in vegetation monitoring and management, the creation of green belts, urban afforestation, and evaluating the environmental, economic, and social benefits of these initiatives.
This forum plays a pivotal role in advancing the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative and highlights the Kingdom's efforts to foster international collaboration in the field of environmental conservation and sustainable development. The event sets the stage for a brighter, greener future by emphasizing the importance of collective action in combating climate challenges, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting sustainable land management.
