In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection and combating climate change, the National Afforestation Program, under the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification, has launched a major environmental project in the North Riyadh Geopark in Thadiq Governorate. This ambitious project aims to plant 400,000 seedlings by 2030, representing a cornerstone in efforts to rehabilitate degraded lands and restore ecological balance to the region.
A field launch towards a sustainable future
The relevant authorities launched the first phase of the project, focusing on the rehabilitation of Wadi Al-Asba’a, located in the Rawdat Al-Sahool area within the park's boundaries. The launch ceremony was attended by a significant number of officials and community members, including the Governor of Thadiq, Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Qasim, and saw wide participation from government agencies, non-profit environmental organizations, and school students. This attendance reflects a growing awareness of the importance of collective action to achieve environmental sustainability and instill the values of tree planting in future generations.
Strategic context: Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030
This project is not an isolated event, but rather a cornerstone of the Saudi Green Initiative launched by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This landmark initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom over the coming decades, equivalent to rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land. These efforts are an integral part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to improve quality of life, reduce carbon emissions, and combat desertification that threatens the region and the world, thus positioning the Kingdom as a leader in global climate action.
The geological and touristic importance of the North Riyadh Park
The afforestation site is of exceptional importance as it is located within the North Riyadh Geopark, which boasts rare geological features, most notably Jabal Al-Asba’ (Finger Mountain). This landmark is a natural icon that attracts tourists and geological researchers from within the Kingdom and abroad. Integrating afforestation with geological sites contributes to promoting the concept of ecotourism, as the vegetation protects the soil from erosion around these features and adds visual beauty that encourages sustainable tourism, thus creating a new economic driver for the region.
Scientific standards and sustainable irrigation techniques
The National Afforestation Program affirmed its commitment to the highest scientific standards to ensure the project's success, selecting native wild plant species such as the Acacia tortilis, Acacia seyal, and Acacia seyal. These species are distinguished by their exceptional ability to adapt to the arid desert climate and their limited water requirements. To achieve maximum sustainability and preserve groundwater reserves, the project relies entirely on tertiary-treated wastewater for irrigation, embodying an ideal model of a circular economy and the efficient use of available resources.
Call for community participation and expected impact
The program extended an open invitation to residents of Thadiq Governorate and those interested in environmental issues to actively participate in the various stages of the afforestation project. Upon completion, this project is expected to contribute to lowering local temperatures, purifying the air, and providing natural habitats for wildlife, thereby enhancing biodiversity in the central region and achieving the Kingdom's goals of creating a green and healthy environment for citizens and residents.
