Combating environmental challenges for sustainable future 
When I reflect on my surroundings and look at my little green plant, I am reminded of the transformation underway in Saudi Arabia, where even the desert is poised to become green in the coming years.
Saudi Arabia has a long history with environmental challenges and comparing those times with today, it is evident that the country has come a long way.
Many environmental laws have been introduced, and various projects and initiatives have been launched, all aimed at enhancing quality of life through sustainable development. To achieve that, there is a need to be well connected with nature.
A while ago, it would have been unthinkable that the Kingdom would restore its natural balance the way it is doing now, and that makes it even more exciting.
In 2021, Saudi Arabia introduced the Saudi Green Initiative, which was established to reach the main goals of emissions reduction, afforestation, and land and sea protection.
One of the most well-known targets for the SGI is its commitment to planting 10 billion trees throughout the Kingdom. But the SGI does not stop there, with the aim to ensure durable, positive change. More than 80 initiatives have been introduced, with plans to be realised throughout the years up until 2040.
A while ago, it would have been unthinkable that the Kingdom would restore its natural balance the way it is doing now, and that makes it even more exciting.
Ritaj Hussain Al-Hazmi
A great example of progress is the 10 billion trees study conducted by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, along with the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification. As a result, a road map was revealed during the Middle East and North Africa Climate Week in 2023.
The road map takes into account zones such as cities, highways, and greenbelts to ensure that trees are planted where they can provide ecosystem services that benefit the health and well-being of residents, the vast majority of whom live in cities.
Increased tree canopy cover was expected to lower temperatures by at least 2.2 degrees Celsius and enhance air quality.
Since the desert covers most of the country, trees will be a fundamental factor in reducing CO2 levels. Considering the vast area the Kingdom encompasses and the diverse ecosystems across its regions, the study has ensured that various native trees are included.
It is all quite astonishing when considering that the 10 billion trees study is only one of the many initiatives launched by the SGI, and by 2030 Saudi Arabia was expected to have invested more than SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) in environmental projects such as this one.
Imagine the transformation: what was once desert now overflowing with greenery. In caring for our plants and green spaces, each tree planted promises to safeguard our planet for the future.
- Ritaj Hussain Al-Hazmi is a young columnist and a Guinness World Record titleholder. She believes in empowering the new generation to reach their full potential.
