Riyadh, March 27, 2024, The Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) launched by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, underscores the Kingdom's strong dedication to environmental protection and sustainability. Since its inception in 2021, SGI has made significant strides in advancing environmental efforts, transitioning the energy sector, and implementing sustainability programs across various sectors.
SGI is instrumental in achieving ambitious goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, intensifying afforestation and land rehabilitation, and safeguarding terrestrial and marine areas. The initiative serves as a unified platform that brings together national efforts from all sectors of society, empowering both the public and private sectors to contribute effectively. Furthermore, SGI plays a crucial role in aligning with global climate goals, paving the way for a more sustainable future not only for Saudi Arabia but also for the world.
Since its launch, SGI has embarked on 80 related initiatives, with investments exceeding SAR705 billion. These initiatives span various sectors of the green economy, accelerating the transition towards sustainability and reinforcing the Kingdom's leadership in implementing the circular carbon economy model. Moreover, they contribute to enhancing the quality of life and preserving the environment for future generations.
SGI adopts a comprehensive three-pronged approach to address environmental challenges effectively. The first pillar focuses on reducing carbon emissions, with an ambitious goal of cutting emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030. This involves accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources, targeting 50% renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2030. Additionally, SGI promotes investments in new energy sources, advocates for energy efficiency, and develops innovative carbon capture and storage programs to mitigate climate change and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
The second pillar emphasizes intensifying afforestation and land rehabilitation, with plans to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land. This initiative aims to improve air quality, reduce dust and sand storms, and restore essential environmental functions.
The third pillar underscores the commitment to protecting Saudi Arabia's natural heritage by aiming to safeguard 30% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. Collaboration with global organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature ensures the preservation of the Kingdom's unique natural habitats for future generations.
