In a strategic move aimed at enhancing vegetation cover and improving the urban landscape of the Saudi capital, the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification significant logistical and environmental support to the "Riyadh Volunteers" initiative, under the auspices of the Riyadh Municipality. This support included providing 80,000 seedlings of native trees and plants suitable for the region's environment, to be planted by Saudi nationals in various neighborhoods and parks throughout Riyadh.
Strategic partnership to serve the environment and society
This effective contribution from the center is a cornerstone of the initiative's success, which aimed to mobilize over 20,000 volunteers. This collaboration reflects the integration between government entities and the local community to achieve sustainable development goals, as efforts extend beyond agriculture to include raising environmental awareness and instilling the values of nature conservation across all segments of society.
In line with the Saudi Green Initiative
This event cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader national context; these efforts directly contribute to achieving the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative , launched by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, which aims to plant 10 billion trees in the Kingdom over the coming decades. Urban afforestation projects within cities like Riyadh are a vital part of this ambitious vision, contributing to lower temperatures, reduced carbon emissions, and combating desertification, a major environmental challenge in the region.
The impact of afforestation on quality of life in Riyadh
This initiative is of particular importance given Riyadh's geographical location and climate. Increasing green spaces within the urban area directly contributes to raising the per capita share of green space, which is one of the indicators of the Quality of Life Program within the Kingdom's Vision 2030. These trees also act as natural windbreaks and dust barriers, and help to moderate the climate, creating a healthier and more attractive environment for the capital's residents and visitors.
Promoting a culture of volunteer work
In addition to its environmental goals, the initiative highlights the social aspect by empowering volunteers. This aligns with the Vision 2030 ambition to reach one million volunteers annually. "Riyadh Volunteers" provided participants with the opportunity to make a tangible, positive impact on their city, fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility.
It is worth mentioning that the National Center for Vegetation Development continues its tireless efforts in supervising rangelands, forests and national parks, working to rehabilitate degraded sites and restore biodiversity, to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.
