Saudi Arabia’s Initiative to Restore Rangelands and Enhance Vegetation

Saudi Arabia is taking significant strides toward achieving its environmental goals with a new initiative aimed at restoring degraded rangelands and increasing vegetation cover throughout the Kingdom. This ambitious project reflects the nation’s commitment to sustainability and ecological balance.

Collaboration for Environmental Restoration

The National Centre for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has teamed up with the Cloud Seeding Program to launch extensive seeding and rainwater harvesting efforts across 33 locations nationwide. This partnership exemplifies a comprehensive approach to environmental management, strategically aligning rehabilitation sites with cloud seeding operations. By doing so, the initiative ensures that resources are directed toward areas where water availability is maximized, creating ideal conditions for seed germination and plant growth.

The Role of Cloud Seeding

As part of this initiative, approximately 80 metric tons of native rangeland seeds from 40 carefully selected species will be sown. These species have been chosen based on their ecological and economic significance, with the aim of revitalizing rangelands, boosting biodiversity, and reinforcing natural ecosystems. This targeted approach not only focuses on restoring vegetation but also on enhancing the overall health of the environment.

Diverse Landscapes Targeted

The initiative spans a variety of landscapes across several key regions, including:

• Al Jouf
• Northern Borders
• Hail
• Qassim
• Madinah
• Makkah
• Riyadh
• Eastern Region
• Aseer

This wide geographic coverage ensures that the project addresses diverse ecological needs and conditions, allowing for a more effective restoration process.

Addressing Desertification and Promoting Biodiversity

The overarching goal of this initiative is to combat desertification, a pressing issue in many parts of Saudi Arabia. By improving soil fertility and water retention, the project aims to create suitable habitats for native plants, which in turn supports the return of wildlife. This holistic approach not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes to the resilience of local ecosystems.

Supporting National Food Security

In addition to its environmental benefits, the initiative is poised to play a crucial role in bolstering national food security. Healthier and more resilient rangeland ecosystems can lead to improved agricultural productivity, ensuring that the Kingdom can better meet its food needs. By fostering a sustainable environment, Saudi Arabia is not only addressing immediate ecological concerns but also laying the groundwork for long-term food stability.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s initiative to restore rangelands and expand vegetation cover is a significant step toward achieving its environmental objectives. Through strategic partnerships and targeted actions, the Kingdom is working to combat desertification, enhance biodiversity, and support food security, all while promoting a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.