Green befits Mecca: A major tree-planting campaign to enhance the region's vegetation cover
Engineer Waleed bin Ibrahim Al-Daghis, Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the Makkah region, confirmed that the branch organizes afforestation events and extensive planting campaigns native trees In various governorates of the Makkah region, to enhance vegetation cover through community partnerships with government agencies, the private sector, and voluntary organizations to raise environmental awareness.
Promoting environmental awareness of the importance of afforestation
Al-Dughais said, “Today also aims to raise environmental awareness and encourage the participation of all segments of society in achieving a more sustainable future.”
He explained that the initiative, which stems from the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, seeks to position the Kingdom as a global leader in environmental action, stressing that “sustainability is no longer an option, but a necessity, and the Kingdom is moving confidently to be part of the global solution.”
He added, “The Saudi Green Initiative represents a true turning point in the relationship between humanity and its environment,” noting that what is happening today “is not just about tree planting projects, but rather a reshaping of the future for generations to come.”
He continued, “We are not just planting trees; we are planting a better quality of life, cleaner air, and more livable cities. Our ambition is for every individual in the Makkah region to feel the impact of this initiative in their daily life, from the moment they leave their home to their travels in greener cities and governorates.”
Translating values into actual behavior
Al-Dughais pointed out that the greatest challenge lies not only in implementation but also in "building sustainable community awareness," calling on individuals to be partners in this transformation. He stated, "Our true success is measured by the extent to which society adopts these values and transforms them into daily behavior."
These efforts come within the framework of focusing on the importance of preserving and protecting the environment for future generations. He emphasized the importance of integrating efforts between government agencies and the private sector to achieve the objectives of environmental initiatives and enhance national efforts aimed at developing vegetation cover and achieving environmental sustainability, in line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
He concluded his statement on an encouraging note: "What we see today is just the beginning... and the future will be greener, God willing."
