Saudi government agencies, private groups and locals join forces to help improve vegetative cover in Madinah region

RIYADH: Representatives of government entities and associations joined hands with locals in Madinah region to scatter seeds of pasture plants and wild trees in the King Abdulaziz Protected Pasture in Al Hanakiyah governorate, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The activity is part of the Saudi Green Initiative, or SGI, whose objective is to revive vegetation cover in the Kingdom, raise awareness about the importance of afforestation, and create green spaces that combat desertification and soil erosion.

The initiative also aims “to preserve a pristine and healthy environment, mitigate environmental pollution, rehabilitate desert lands, and enhance vegetation cover in the region,” according to the report.

Last weekend’s activity was spearheaded by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), in collaboration with Madinah region officials.

Seeds of various pasture plants, such as the Rimth saltbush, Arfaj, Lemongrass, and Fourwing saltbush, along with seeds of wild trees such as the Acacia tortilis, the Acacia seyal, and the Acacia salam, were used in the project.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the Saudi Green Initiative in March 2021, as an extension of the bigger Saudi Vision 2030, a blueprint to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, empower its citizens, and creating a vibrant environment for both local and international investors.

The SGI seeks to protect 30 percent of the Kingdom’s land and sea by 2030, and the NCVC was created to spearhead the program to fight desertification by means ensure sustainable management of grazing lands and national parks, rehabilitation of vegetative cover and afforestation, and forest and vegetation protection.