RIYADH: The United Nations has praised Saudi Arabia’s leadership in reaching a significant milestone by successfully restoring one million hectares of degraded land.
The achievement underscores the Kingdom’s integrated approach and steadfast commitment to generating tangible environmental change, proving that land restoration is achievable even in the most challenging conditions, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Executive Secretary Dr. Yasmine Fouad commended Saudi Arabia’s leadership in advancing key international environmental initiatives, including the Middle East Green Initiative and the Global Land Initiative, as well as its role as president of the Conference of the Parties.
She highlighted that these efforts have raised global ambition and strengthened coordinated action on environmental issues.
Dr. Fouad emphasised that restoring degraded land extends beyond environmental benefits, representing a significant developmental and humanitarian achievement.
It directly enhances food security, supports local economies, generates employment, and improves the quality of life for communities.
Additionally, these efforts contribute to addressing broader global challenges, including climate change, stability in fragile regions, and reducing displacement caused by land degradation.
Dr. Fouad expressed the international organisation’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s continued efforts to advance the global environmental agenda, noting that while this achievement is significant, it marks just one step on a longer journey.
She stressed that sustained commitment, accelerated action, and strengthened partnerships are essential moving forward.
Highlighting the broader impact, she emphasised that land restoration is an investment in people, stability, and a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.
