RIYADH: The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority has been officially welcomed as a government member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The authority’s membership was granted in recognition of its efforts to empower local communities in nature conservation, wildlife protection, and the restoration of key flora and fauna across Saudi Arabia.
As one of the first organizations in the Kingdom to obtain IUCN membership, the authority gains access to international databases specialized in wildlife protection and the expertise of 18,000 specialists associated with the global conservation body.
Saudi Royal Reserve Authority Aims to Ensure Preservation of Environment
This membership enables the authority to forge partnerships, exchange experiences with other members, and actively participate in the IUCN’s quadrennial meetings and conferences.
By joining the IUCN, the authority aims to ensure the durable preservation of the environment in alignment with the objectives and goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan and the Saudi Green Initiative.
Fahad Al-Shuwaier, the Director General of Communication at King Salman Royal Reserve, highlighted that the authority meticulously presented its environmental projects in its membership application to the IUCN.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Bouq, the Director General of Wildlife Conservation at the National Center for Wildlife Development, emphasized that the IUCN membership would facilitate adherence to international best practices. He pointed out the successful example of the Farasan Islands’ Archipelago Reserve, which attained UNESCO-listed status by adhering to international benchmarks.
Al-Bouq emphasized the significance of international partnerships in establishing standards and guidelines for conservation efforts. He stressed the significance of community involvement and sustainable utilization of natural resources, as recommended by international organizations focused on protected areas.
