How Saudi Arabia’s environmental initiatives are restoring the natural equilibrium

Special How Saudi Arabia’s environmental initiatives are restoring the natural equilibrium
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Updated 06 June 2023
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How Saudi Arabia’s environmental initiatives are restoring the natural equilibrium

How Saudi Arabia’s environmental initiatives are restoring the natural equilibrium
  • Strides made by the Kingdom in increasing its protected habitats to 30% by 2030 in the limelight on World Environment Day
  • Initiatives such as SGI offer a road map for increasing vegetation, rehabilitating endangered species, protecting vulnerable habitats

JEDDAH: Centuries of abuse by human hands have challenged the globe’s natural cycle of biodiversity. On this World Environment Day, governments are working to restore balance, including in Saudi Arabia, a country with one of the harshest and most diverse natural environments on the planet.

Almost all organisms live in environments altered, to some degree, by human activities, causing habitat loss, species endangerment and extinction, pollution, and more. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations report on the world’s forests in 2022 stated that “as the window for action narrows, and as population growth and aspirations place new demands on physical resources, it seems clear that natural ecosystems are vital assets that must be restored, maintained and sustainably managed.”

Led by the UN Environment Programme since its inception in 1973, World Environment Day, the most influential global platform for environmental outreach, serves as a reminder of the issues and challenges plaguing the world, with millions of people engaging to protect the planet.

Conservation, “the care and preservation of natural resources,” is not a recent phenomenon, though it was undermined and ignored until the 21st century and the harsh realities of climate change became apparent, making crafting environmental policies an increasingly urgent task.




The Saudi Green Initiative, an ambitious national plan to combat climate change, was launched in 2021. (SGI)

It has often proven to be an uphill challenge. Realizing the consequences of inaction, there have been intense and determined campaigns to further the complex task of defining long-term goals at a time when nature is under assault, to issue guidelines and laws with profound changes in environmental infrastructure, and to promote environmental protection and conservation.

In 2021, the Saudi Green Initiative was launched, an ambitious national plan to combat climate change, improve quality of life and protect the planet for future generations. It coined the term “conservation” with initiatives such as environmental protection, energy transition, sustainability programs, and more under its umbrella. It has become a core message in every ambitious project, company environmental target, and social responsibility goal in less than two years.

Under the SGI, Saudi Arabia has committed to protecting 30 percent of its terrestrial and marine area by 2030. Its targets are clear — emissions reduction, afforestation, and land and sea protection, with 77 initiatives activated. To date, 66,000 sq. km of land and sea are currently protected, over 1,200 animals have been rewilded, and approximately 17 percent of the Kingdom’s land and sea are protected.

Ecosystems, particularly their living components, have always provided the capital to fuel human economies, a notion realized in Saudi Arabia as conservation efforts and development projects go hand in hand.

The Kingdom’s flagship giga-project, NEOM, is considered one of the most ambitious projects with sustainable development embedded in its core values.

While no universally acceptable, practical definition of sustainable development exists, the concept has evolved to encompass three significant points of view: economic, social, and environmental.

The economy is geared mainly toward improving human welfare, the environmental domain focuses on protecting the integrity and resilience of ecological systems, and the social domain emphasizes enriching human life and achievements and strengthening values and institutions.

INNUMBERS

  • 1,200+ Endangered animals rewilded in 15 Saudi locations.
  • $25m Fund for efforts to conserve critically endangered Arabian leopard.
  • 8m Hectares of degraded land to be rehabilitated by 2030.
  • 600m Trees to be planted by 2030.
  • 10bn Trees planted is equivalent to rehabilitating 40m hectares of degraded land. 
  • 16% Terrestrial and 5.5% marine protected areas.   

Speaking to Arab News, Dr. Paul Marshall, head of Nature Region, said that NEOM has embarked on an ambitious and innovative conservation mission that includes “re-greening” and rewilding while committing 95 percent of the project to nature, spanning 26,500 sq. km.

For “re-greening,” NEOM is planting native vegetation and reducing pressure on the landscape from livestock, which will protect and reverse the degradation of the land by planting 100 million shrubs, trees, and other plants by 2030. So far, more than 100,000 plants have been planted, with over 1 million trees, shrubs, and grasses to be planted by the end of 2023.

As for rewilding, it will reintroduce species that were once indigenous to the area but have since declined. Native species will initially be reintroduced to large, enclosed areas, and over time, as the landscape recovers and animal numbers increase, fences will be removed.

“An early indicator of the success of the rewilding project can be seen in the NEOM Nature Reserve’s first breeding season. Working closely with our partner, The National Center for Wildlife, the first release of native animals into our reserve took place in late 2022 with herds of Nubian ibex, Arabian sand gazelle, mountain gazelle and Arabian oryx successfully reintroduced. The total number of babies born this breeding season is 31. This is 23 Sand gazelle babies and 8 Ibex babies.




Arabian Sand Gazelle released at NEOM Nature Reserve in December 2022. (NEOM)

The achievement is challenging, as he explained that three elements are incorporated into NEOM’s animal distribution modeling. “The first assesses the immediately accessible areas to ensure a healthy and safe release environment, the second analyzes potential dispersal constraints, and the third simulate dispersal through time,” he said.

“For this, we work in conjunction with the plant rewilding team to ascertain where our animals’ potential food sources will be. This helps us model likely dispersal patterns and allows us to plot the regeneration of the reserve.

“In terms of a shift being needed to protect certain species, I think it’s fair to say that a century ago, if we had the tools, knowledge, expertise and capacity that we have now, the Nubian ibex, Arabian sand gazelle, mountain gazelle and Arabian oryx would never have disappeared from the region and would instead be thriving in a vibrant, rich and self-sustaining ecosystem. It is how we envisage NEOM’s land to be and what we are working towards.”

In a statement to Arab News on Sunday, NEOM said “the total number of babies born this breeding season is 31, including 23 sand gazelles and eight (Nubian) ibex. The total number of animals in the NEOM Nature Reserve is now 146.”

With its rich land and marine biodiversity, astounding wildlife, and breathtaking bird migrations passing above the Kingdom’s skies, it is difficult to disconnect the link between science from the initiatives.




Arabian Oryx being released into NEOM Nature reserve in December 2022 – the first time in more than 100 years the species walked the sands of this region. (NEOM)

There are 15 designated protected areas in Saudi Arabia managed by the National Center for Wildlife, including several royal reserves and natural reserves managed by other authorities that are home to over 10,000 species of animals, nearly 500 species of birds, more than 1,800 species of fish, whale, and dolphin, 330 species of coral reefs, and many more according to NCW.

Like land conservation, marine conservation is considered one of the world’s most pressing scientific issues. From space, Earth is a pale blue dot covered with more than 70 percent water.

According to UNESCO, the ocean functions as a life-support system for our “blue planet,” regulating the climate on a global scale and producing over half of the oxygen we breathe. Despite this, humanity has mistreated these life-giving oceans to the point where around 40 percent of marine ecosystems have been harmed.

Nestled in one of the Red Sea’s lagoons, the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology considers the body of water it neighbors as its biggest and most unique laboratory. and one of the Kingdom’s most vital strategic assets.




Coral reefs in the Red Sea. (Supplied) 

Considered one of the saltiest and warmest seas, it provides insight into the environmental stressors the rest of the world’s seas will face in the near future, the director of KAUST’s Red Sea Research Center, Michael Berumen, told Arab News.

“The marine life of the Red Sea has adapted to these challenging conditions, and we seek to understand the mechanisms facilitating this adaptation — ranging from genes and genomes to unique behaviors and physiologies.

“Careful management of Red Sea ecosystems is fundamental for conservation and to ensure that this national treasure remains as healthy as possible for generations to come. Particular attention has been paid to improved management of fisheries and habitat restoration capabilities. Faculty in the RSRC work very closely with KAUST’s Reefscape Restoration Initiative at Shushah Island, arguably the world’s most ambitious coral restoration program,” said Prof. Berumen.

“The lessons learned from the Red Sea can be transferred to many other regions of the world. In line with KAUST’s educational objectives, the RSRC facilitates the training and education of future leaders in marine science through student and postdoctoral support,” he added.




Wide angle view of plants on water and boats in the distance on the Mangrove Coastline. (Supplied) 

The world’s population is growing, with an estimated increase of nearly 2 billion people in the next 30 years, reaching 9.7 billion by 2050. The trend is toward migration into cities.

By 2050, it is projected that more than two-thirds of the world’s population — close to 7 billion people — will live in urban areas. There is a long-standing dispute about how much population growth causes environmental degradation.

Historical trajectories, local policies, and cultural preferences affect how compact or dispersed residential areas are built. “What is needed are solutions that see nature protected and restored, not spoiled by human development and increased urbanization,” said Marshall.

 


Restaurant-owning Saudi prince cooks up social media sensation

Restaurant-owning Saudi prince cooks up social media sensation
Updated 26 September 2023
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Restaurant-owning Saudi prince cooks up social media sensation

Restaurant-owning Saudi prince cooks up social media sensation
  • Prince Nayef bin Mamdouh bin Abdulaziz dons a chef’s apron to serve and cook for customers

JEDDAH: A Saudi prince has caused a social media sensation with video clips of him serving and cooking for customers at his newly opened restaurant.

Prince Nayef bin Mamdouh bin Abdulaziz donned a chef’s apron and joined the staff to offer traditional Saudi cuisine such as mandi, jareesh, kabsa, mitazeez, margoog, harissa, and arekah at the Makarem Najd restaurant in Jeddah.

In one video clip, the prince can be seen cooking chicken over charcoal, and explaining the restaurant’s food safety accreditation to a customer.

“Young people say to me, ‘Why are you wearing this, and why are you working like this?’ This is my job,” the prince said. “I like to share my work with my team. Work is an honor, it is not a shame, and there is no prophet who did not herd sheep — work on yourself.”

Fans on social media approved. Abdul Rahman Al-Solaim said: “This is a message to some of our young men and women who may refuse to work in such professions. Prince Nayef bin Mamdouh bin Abdulaziz mobilizes enthusiasm and promotes the culture of self-employment.”

Another user, Mohammed Al-Shehri, said: “A beautiful and wonderful scene of Prince Nayef personally supervising and serving the patrons of a restaurant.”

The son of inventor, philanthropist, and former Tabuk Gov. Prince Mamdouh bin Abdulaziz, the prince has followed in his father’s footsteps doing charitable work.

One of his projects involved the creation of a rescue and relief helicopter with firefighting capabilities, an initiative that earned him a grand prize from the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions.


Musical nostalgia beats in the heart of Jeddah

Musical nostalgia beats in the heart of Jeddah
Updated 25 September 2023
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Musical nostalgia beats in the heart of Jeddah

Musical nostalgia beats in the heart of Jeddah
  • Paying homage to world and local sounds, ‘Music and Antiques’ is a vibrant space founded by Saudi collector and producer Anwar Idriss

JEDDAH: In the heart of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s rich musical heritage is being revealed for contemporary audiences with a space titled “Music and Antiques,” thanks to the passion of Anwar Idriss, a well-traveled enthusiast, collector and producer.

The space represents the deep-rooted love Idriss holds for music, nurtured in Saudi Arabia and the US, where he spent his formative years.

Taking inspiration from signature Georgian designs, infused by his own style he labels “organized chaos,” Idriss has created an inviting and enveloping atmosphere within Music and Antiques. It is characterized by symmetrical layouts, decorative molding, and a generous splash of warm tones.

Music and Antiques is home to 4,000 vinyl records, including an original 1931 classic by Ludwig van Beethoven, and a 100-year-old piano. (AN photos by Nada Hameed)

The striking maroon walls are a testament to this style, coupled with polished wooden floors that seem to echo with stories with every step taken on them. Wooden shelves, showcasing a vast array of musical artifacts, line the walls, adding depth and history to the ambiance.

It is like a luxurious living room, with its wooden nuances and sparkling chandeliers. But the true marvel lies on the second floor, which has been transformed into a museum of musical collectibles.

HIGHLIGHTS

• ‘Music and Antiques’ is located on Al-Zahra district’s Al-Batarji street in Jeddah.

• The second floor is a museum of musical collectibles.

• Most of the showcased items were handpicked by founder Anwar Idriss.

Idriss has an enviable musical background, having collaborated with many prominent Saudi and Arab musicians. This expertise includes the production of TV commercials and music videos.

In a conversation with Arab News, Idriss recalled being a part of the last generation to receive formal music classes at Al-Thagour School in Saudi Arabia: “Ever since then my passion for music never died.”

Music and Antiques is home to 4,000 vinyl records, including an original 1931 classic by Ludwig van Beethoven, and a 100-year-old piano. (AN photos by Nada Hameed)

Idriss says the space is a culmination of a “personal dream,” emphasizing that he seeks to foster an appreciation of music without the distractions of modern technology.

The space serves several purposes, including to educate and protect the artistic heritage of generations past. It also acts as a space for live performances, and encourages children to come for rehearsals or simply explore their own passion for music.

“At its core, Music and Antiques is not just about reminiscing; it is about fostering all talents,” Idriss explained.

Anwar Idriss, Music and Antiques founder

“We motivate people to thrive on their skills and not to over-rely on technology when it comes to music,” he added.

Smoking is prohibited during performances, and as well as recording performers. The focus is on nurturing artistic growth and expression, not on seeking fleeting fame, he says.

The beating heart of Music and Antiques is its vast vinyl collection, encompassing genres ranging from blues and jazz to R&B, rock, hip-hop, and Arab music.

At its core, Music and Antiques is not just about reminiscing; it is about fostering all talents.

Anwar Idriss, Music and Antiques founder

Idriss proudly added: “This place houses over 4,000 vinyl records, including an original 1931 classic by Ludwig van Beethoven and a 100-year-old piano.”

The treasure trove of unique items includes paintings by local artists, hundreds of vintage cassette tapes, videotapes, CDs, TVs, and audio equipment, including stereos and gramophones.

Posters of American and Arab music legends including Ray Charles, Abdel Halim Hafez and Fairuz adorn the walls, adding layers to the rich tapestry of musical history being showcased.

Idriss handpicked most of the showcased items at Music and Antiques, and he  encourages collectors to exchange music-related antiques.

With an eye on helping people to diversify their income, in line with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision, Idriss welcomes the selling of items by music aficionados and collectors.

“Everything in the place is for sale, and we support and respect all items,” he said.

The response from the Saudi community has been overwhelming, with visitors flocking from all over the Kingdom to experience the magic of Music and Antiques.

Idriss is even considering franchising the concept to spread its unique spirit far and wide.

Looking ahead, Music and Antiques has ambitious plans to introduce the concept of “Tiny Disc,” which allows musicians to create music on the go. It is a testament to Idriss’ unwavering commitment to artistic creation for generations to come.

Music and Antiques stands as a beacon, reminding us of the enduring power of sound in people’s lives.

 


Who’s Who: Bandar Al-Mashhadi, CEO of the Media Rating Co.

Bandar Al-Mashhadi
Bandar Al-Mashhadi
Updated 25 September 2023
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Who’s Who: Bandar Al-Mashhadi, CEO of the Media Rating Co.

Bandar Al-Mashhadi

Bandar Al-Mashhadi is CEO of the Media Rating Co., a privately owned company that provides content consumption data measurement services to the media industry in Saudi Arabia. It is the Kingdom’s only licensed provider for data on viewership and is authorized by the General Authority of Media Regulation.  

The company aims to provide reliable insights into viewership and consumption patterns by ensuring its measurement methodologies align with the ever-changing requirements of media owners, agencies, and advertisers.

Under Al-Mashhadi’s leadership, the company provides precise information regarding media consumption across various platforms, including television and the internet, and aims to venture into emerging domains like gaming and podcasting as part of its expansion strategy.

Al-Mashhadi’s commitment to transparency, accuracy, and reliability forms the bedrock of the company’s operational philosophy, instilling confidence among stakeholders and propelling the company toward long-term, sustainable success in the industry.  

He has over 20 years of experience in engineering, media, and project management, having worked in various positions in the media and telecommunications industries.

Al-Mashhadi was vice president and general manager of the Middle East and North Africa region at WWE, managing director at OSN, and advisor to the minister of media.

He received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in aerospace from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and later attended Harvard Business School’s Senior Executive Leadership Program in the Middle East.

 


Minister meets Danish envoy to Saudi Arabia

Ali Al-Yousef receives Liselotte Plesner in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Ali Al-Yousef receives Liselotte Plesner in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 25 September 2023
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Minister meets Danish envoy to Saudi Arabia

Ali Al-Yousef receives Liselotte Plesner in Riyadh. (Supplied)
  • They reviewed bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments of common concern

RIYADH: Ambassador Ali Al-Yousef, Saudi deputy minister for consular affairs, on Monday met Liselotte Plesner, the ambassador of Denmark to the Kingdom.

The parties reviewed bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments of common concern.

Plesner recently met Saudi Minister of Media Salman Al-Dosari, and said in a post on X that they had discussed “development of the Saudi media landscape and opportunities for cooperation between Denmark and Saudi Arabia.”

 

 


Bahrain says officer, soldier killed in Houthi attack along Saudi-Yemeni border

A plane was sent with a medical crew to transport those killed and the wounded to Bahrain. (File/Reuters)
A plane was sent with a medical crew to transport those killed and the wounded to Bahrain. (File/Reuters)
Updated 25 September 2023
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Bahrain says officer, soldier killed in Houthi attack along Saudi-Yemeni border

A plane was sent with a medical crew to transport those killed and the wounded to Bahrain. (File/Reuters)
  • Those killed were stationed on the Saudi-Yemeni border as part of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, the military said

RIYADH: A Bahraini officer and soldier were killed in a Houthi attack along the border between war-torn Yemen and Saudi Arabia, Bahrain’s military said on Monday.

Those killed were stationed on the Saudi-Yemeni border as part of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, the military said.

A statement said “a number” of soldiers were wounded in the attack early on Monday.

“This treacherous terrorist act was carried out by the Houthis using drones to attack the positions of the Bahraini force stationed on Saudi Arabia’s southern border despite the cessation of military operations between parties to the war in Yemen,” the statement said.

A plane was sent with a medical crew to transport those killed and the wounded to Bahrain.