Why restoring ecosystem balance is crucial for economies, societies, and wildlife

Analysis Why restoring ecosystem balance is crucial for economies, societies, and wildlife
Imbalanced ecosystems and biodiversity loss, driven by habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change, are key challenges the Saudi Green Initiative is tackling to mitigate their environmental, economic, and social impacts. (SGI)
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Updated 14 December 2024
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Why restoring ecosystem balance is crucial for economies, societies, and wildlife

Why restoring ecosystem balance is crucial for economies, societies, and wildlife
  • Biodiversity loss weakens ecosystems, driving migration and potential conflict, says UN Environment Programme director
  • Saudi Green Initiative announces $60 million in environmental projects as 12-day COP16 conference concludes in Riyadh

RIYADH: Imbalanced ecosystems and biodiversity loss, driven by habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change, are key challenges the Saudi Green Initiative is tackling to mitigate their environmental, economic, and social impacts.

The decline of certain species can destabilize food systems, leading to overpopulation of others and resource depletion. This imbalance, whether driven by natural factors or human activities, often degrades habitats as unchecked species overgraze or consume vegetation.

“The highest point of the mountain is connected to the deepest point in the ocean,” said Mohammad Qurban, CEO of the Saudi National Center for Wildlife, explaining how environmental damage in one area is linked to issues elsewhere.

For instance, desertification in mountain peaks leads to soil erosion, which is carried by rain into the seas. Along with the soil, plastics and toxins from land and air pollute the water, destabilizing marine ecosystems, he told Arab News at the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP16, which concluded in Riyadh on Friday.

“Where does this go? It goes to the ecosystem,” Qurban said, referring to the movement of toxins from land to the sea. “So, we start losing coral reefs, seagrass, and we start losing fish.

“We are all part of this system that we call the food web. It is a chain. With each link lost, we lose the next one and the next one.”

As part of its ecosystem management efforts to combat desertification, the Saudi government plans to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land by 2030.

The Kingdom also aims to protect 30 percent of its land and marine areas by 2030 through the 30x30 initiative, which Qurban discussed last week during the session “MEAs Synergies for Strengthened Environmental Governance: Insights from the Bern III Conference,” held on the sidelines of COP16.

Qurban said disturbances in one animal population can have consequences elsewhere, such as the overpopulation of another species. In his recent interview with Arab News, he recounted an incident in which a farmer once reached out to the NCW, concerned about snakes on his land and requested their removal.

The center explained that while they could address the situation, it was important to consider the ecological balance. Snakes play a key role in maintaining this balance by controlling rodent populations and removing them could disrupt the natural harmony of the habitat.




As part of its ecosystem management efforts to combat desertification, the Saudi government plans to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land by 2030. (SGI)

The UN has said that a million animal and plant species worldwide are at risk of extinction as a result of human-induced environmental issues.

Biodiversity loss also reduces resilience, making ecosystems more vulnerable to external shocks, such as diseases or climate events.

“Having a balanced ecosystem means the rains will come when we expect them to come, means the cold comes when it’s just right for our crops to get a little of a nip in the air, and means that the sun comes out at the right time when the grains have to ripen and dry under the sun. That is a balanced ecosystem,” Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Programme, told Arab News.

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Restoring balance is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, which sustain life on Earth, including human communities that depend on these natural systems for resources and services.

“Some people who are living in the cities may not think that they are relying on the ecosystem because they get their food from the grocery store,” Andersen said. “But the reality, of course, is that there is an ecosystem somewhere in the world that provides that food that they purchased. So, we are all relying on that ecosystem.”

DID YOU KNOW?

  • The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve Development Authority protects 90 percent of the reserve with more than 100 rangers patrolling it.
  • About 700,000 trees have been planted in the reserve to improve vegetation cover, according to CEO Mohammed Al-Shaalan.
  • The reserve, which is in the Kingdom’s northeast, spans several regions, including Jawf, Qassim, Hail, Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province.

Furthermore, an unstable ecosystem imposes a financial burden on the government for restoration and ongoing maintenance.

In Asir, in the Kingdom’s southwest, the decline in Arabian leopard populations led to a significant increase in the baboon population. Large troops of baboons, typically found in the southern mountain ranges, have negatively affected local communities. As a result, despite the region’s stunning landscapet, tourism in the area has declined in recent years.

“People lost tourists in Asir because of the baboons,” said Qurban, citing safety concerns. “Some people abandoned their farms; they abandoned their farms completely in Asir and Al-Baha.”

And while some argue that protecting and restoring a sustainable environment is costly to the economy, other business owners believe the cost of sustainable development depends on their objectives.




In Asir, in the Kingdom’s southwest, the decline in Arabian leopard populations led to a significant increase in the baboon population. (SPA)

During a panel discussion at COP16, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed, CEO of the asset management company KBW Ventures, discussed the economics of ecosystems and the real financial costs of implementing green development.

He said that solutions vary by location and must align with the private sector’s objectives to effectively implement sustainable development goals.

“It is not a one size fits all,” he said. “It is a bouquet of opportunities that you have to be customized for it to be actually scalable and profitable for the private sectors and industries in these private sectors to actually flourish.”




During a panel discussion at COP16, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed, CEO of the asset management company KBW Ventures, discussed the economics of ecosystems and the real financial costs of implementing green development. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

Although securing a balanced ecosystem may be costly, the Kingdom made several significant announcements at COP16 over the past two weeks regarding environmental projects.

The Saudi Green Initiative launched five new projects worth $60 million, reflecting the Kingdom’s bold environmental strategy and commitment to sustainable development. This brings the total investment in SGI projects to more than $188 billion.

But Saudi Arabia is not alone in its commitment to green development; many countries share this goal. However, some urban activities can inadvertently harm the environment despite efforts to protect it.

Damage to soil and polluted water sources have also increased social pressure in some communities, prompting people to migrate to regions with better environmental conditions for their families and future.

“If the ecosystem is so imbalanced that I can no longer farm, that I can no longer sustain my family, and I can no longer feed my children, I have only one choice, and it has been the same for thousands of years,” Andersen said. “I will walk.” 

 


Turtles help scientists discover hidden seagrass meadows in Red Sea

A seagrass meadow in the Red Sea, newly discovered through the tracking of green turtles, can be seen. (Supplied)
A seagrass meadow in the Red Sea, newly discovered through the tracking of green turtles, can be seen. (Supplied)
Updated 12 January 2025
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Turtles help scientists discover hidden seagrass meadows in Red Sea

A seagrass meadow in the Red Sea, newly discovered through the tracking of green turtles, can be seen. (Supplied)
  • Tagged turtles lead scientists to foraging spots
  • Study has implications for new sustainability policies

RIYADH: Scientists have discovered 34 previously unknown seagrass meadows in the Red Sea by tracking the foraging behavior of green turtles.

The findings were revealed in a study published by researchers from the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia in collaboration with the Queensland Government in Australia.

This study highlights the benefits of observing turtles to map marine ecosystems critical for carbon capture and economic sustainability, offering valuable data for developing sustainability policies for the Red Sea region, according to a statement from KAUST.

Seagrass, along with mangroves and salt marshes, plays a vital role in absorbing “blue carbon” — carbon stored by coastal vegetation — at rates more efficient than rainforests.

Despite this, it is estimated that only 10 percent of global seagrass areas have been identified, as satellite-based surveys, though effective in shallow areas, fall short in accuracy for deeper regions.

By tagging 53 green turtles in the Red Sea, scientists were able to track their natural foraging paths, which led to the discovery of these previously hidden seagrass meadows.

This expanded the mapped seagrass coverage in the region by nearly 15 percent. Remarkably, the turtles proved to be about 20 times more accurate in identifying seagrass areas than the widely used Allen Coral Atlas, especially in deeper waters.

Green turtles also offer a more cost-effective approach to mapping marine vegetation.

According to Prof. Carlos Duarte, Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor at KAUST and lead researcher on the study, traditional methods such as aerial surveys with hyperspectral and LiDAR sensors cost tens of millions of dollars, whereas tagging turtles costs less than 1 percent of that amount.

Prof. Carlos Duarte, Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor at KAUST. (Supplied)

“Countries need reliable, accurate data to make good policies for environmental protection, which also safeguards their economies. Our study provides crucial data for the Red Sea and supports the conservation strategies and blue carbon programs of the countries along its coasts,” Duarte said in a statement.


Saudi foreign minister holds high-level meetings on sidelines of Syria conference in Riyadh

Saudi foreign minister holds high-level meetings on sidelines of Syria conference in Riyadh
Updated 23 min 59 sec ago
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Saudi foreign minister holds high-level meetings on sidelines of Syria conference in Riyadh

Saudi foreign minister holds high-level meetings on sidelines of Syria conference in Riyadh
  • Discussions underscore Kingdom’s commitment to fostering international cooperation

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a series of meetings in Riyadh on Sunday on the sidelines of the expanded ministerial meeting on Syria, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The discussions underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing regional challenges, the SPA added.

Prince Faisal met Asaad Al-Shaibani, his counterpart in the new Syrian administration. The parties reviewed the latest developments in the Syrian crisis and exchanged views on issues of mutual concern.

Waleed Al-Khuraiji, the deputy minister of foreign affairs, and Prince Musab bin Mohammed Al-Farhan, adviser of the foreign minister for political affairs, also attended the meeting.

The foreign minister also held talks with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan.

In a separate meeting, Prince Faisal spoke with David Lammy, the UK’s foreign secretary. Their discussions focused on enhancing relations and joint cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the UK, alongside exchanging perspectives on regional and international developments. Prince Khalid bin Bandar, the Saudi ambassador to the UK, was also in attendance.

Prince Faisal also met Kaja Kallas, the high representative of the EU for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission.

The parties explored opportunities for joint cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the EU and also discussed pressing regional and global matters.

Prince Faisal also engaged in talks with Annalena Baerbock, the German minister for foreign affairs. They discussed strengthening Saudi-German relations and emphasized the importance of coordination on key international issues. Prince Abdullah bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, the Saudi ambassador to Germany, was also present.


Saudi university signs 15 new agreements to research defense, AI, and nuclear technologies

Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy, attends a signing ceremony at KFUPM. (Supplied)
Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy, attends a signing ceremony at KFUPM. (Supplied)
Updated 12 January 2025
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Saudi university signs 15 new agreements to research defense, AI, and nuclear technologies

Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy, attends a signing ceremony at KFUPM. (Supplied)
  • King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals signed the agreements at a recent ceremony in Dhahran

DHAHRAN: One of the Kingdom’s leading universities has signed 15 new agreements with government entities and major corporations to advance research in areas including defense, artificial intelligence, and nuclear energy.

The King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals signed the agreements at a recent ceremony in Dhahran attended by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, minister of energy and chairman of KFUPM’s Board of Trustees.

Among the highlights is a memorandum of understanding with the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy to advance technology in nuclear and renewable energy, hydrogen, and AI.

The partnership also seeks to develop skills through scholarships, educational programs and entrepreneurial training.

KFUPM also signed two agreements with the Ministry of Defense.

The first introduces an academic program for military college students, while the second focuses on training and educational enrichment for “war veterans and martyrs’ children.”

Additionally, an agreement with the General Authority for Defense Development was signed to develop national capabilities in defense research and advanced technologies.

This agreement focuses on building research infrastructure and creating frameworks to enhance collaboration in defense systems.

The university also signed a new partnership with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, which outlines graduate scholarships, faculty exchanges and joint research projects.

Beyond defense, AI, and energy, KFUPM partnered with Aramco to establish two research centers.

One will focus on carbon materials to develop sustainable chemicals and materials, while the other will advance petroleum conversion technologies, emphasizing low-carbon fuels and plastics recycling.

The university also signed an agreement with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services to explore drone systems, autonomous vehicles and clean-energy transportation technologies, contributing to future regulatory and technological advancements in logistics.

Other collaborations include a memorandum of understanding with the National Center for Environmental Compliance to create a research center for environmental studies, a partnership with NEOM to co-develop academic programs and research initiatives, and an agreement with the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre to support biomedical engineering and medical device innovation.

Economic and educational development was also addressed through agreements with the Ministry of Economy and Planning to launch postgraduate programs in economics, and a partnership was created with Bank Albilad to provide financial support for students.


Rain lashes parts of Saudi Arabia with warnings of thunderstorms and hail

Rain fell on parts of Saudi Arabia early on Sunday, with officials forecasting thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. (SPA)
Rain fell on parts of Saudi Arabia early on Sunday, with officials forecasting thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. (SPA)
Updated 12 January 2025
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Rain lashes parts of Saudi Arabia with warnings of thunderstorms and hail

Rain fell on parts of Saudi Arabia early on Sunday, with officials forecasting thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. (SPA)
  • Overcast skies dominated the day in the capital Riyadh, which recorded moderate rainfall in the morning
  • The weather office also warned of potential near-zero visibility and flooding in some areas

RIYADH: Rain fell on parts of Saudi Arabia early on Sunday, with officials forecasting thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds.

Overcast skies dominated the day in the capital Riyadh, which recorded moderate rainfall in the morning.

The National Center of Meteorology forecast strong winds, hail and thunderstorms, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The weather office also warned of potential near-zero visibility and flooding in some areas.

In the southern Jazan region, heavy rain was reported earlier in the day, affecting Jazan City for Basic and Transformative Industries, as well as the governorates of Ad-Darb, Beesh and the Farasan Islands.

The center issued alerts for Jazan, warning of thunderstorms, high waves and strong winds in the region.

Areas including Sabya, Abu Arish, Al-Harith, Ad-Dayer, Fifa, and Harub were highlighted in the advisory.

Residents were cautioned about the risk of reduced visibility and localized flooding in affected areas.

Earlier this week, parts of Saudi Arabia, including Asir, Makkah, and Madinah regions, experienced similar weather conditions.

Thunderstorms coupled with heavy rain caused temporary disruptions in traffic and daily activities.

The authorities issued several warnings during that period, urging residents to stay vigilant, especially in flood-prone areas.

The rainfall is caused by seasonal weather changes affecting parts of the Kingdom.

The Jazan region, in particular, often experiences heavy rains at this time of year, which can result in flash floods and other related challenges.

Authorities in Riyadh and Jazan have reiterated the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, particularly for motorists navigating slippery roads and areas prone to water accumulation.

Emergency response teams are on high alert to address any incidents caused by the adverse weather.

Residents in affected areas have been advised to follow updates and warnings issued by the center to ensure their safety as weather conditions develop.


Saudi Arabia calls for Syria sanctions to be lifted

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan  speaks to the press, on the day of a meeting on Syria in Riyadh.
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Updated 12 January 2025
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Saudi Arabia calls for Syria sanctions to be lifted

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan  speaks to the press, on the day of a meeting on Syria in Riyadh.
  • Kingdom’s foreign minister called for the continuation of humanitarian and economic support for Syria
  • He emphasized the importance of respecting the country’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Sunday called for the lifting of sanctions on Syria, saying the curbs hindered the country’s rebuilding and development.

He made the call at a press briefing after high-level meetings on Syria in Riyadh.

“We stressed the importance of lifting unilateral and international sanctions imposed on Syria, as their continuation hinders the aspirations of the Syrian people to achieve development and reconstruction,” Prince Faisal said.

The Riyadh meeting on Syria was attended by representatives of a number of countries from the Middle East and beyond, including Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkiye, as well as the UK and US. Officials from the GCC, EU and UN also took part.

 

Recently appointed Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani represented Syria’s leadership at the meeting.

In his remarks to the press, Prince Faisal said that participants welcomed the positive steps made by the new Syrian administration, such as embracing “joint dialogue and commitment to combat terrorism.”

The Saudi foreign minister said the meeting sought to provide support and advice to the new leadership in a way that respects their independence and takes into account that the future of the country is for the Syrian people.

“We also stressed the importance of continuing humanitarian and economic support in the field of the Syrian state, achieving stability, reconstruction, and preparing the appropriate environment for the return of the Syrian refugees,” he added.

Prince Faisal said that the Kingdom is keen to continue coordinating with and standing by Syria and its people.

Officials from the EU and Germany spoke about the state of sanctions imposed on the country.

Kaja Kallas, EU commissioner for foreign affairs, said in a media briefing that she will discuss ways to ease sanctions in a meeting with European foreign ministers on Jan. 27.
 
The EU is prepared to take further steps if progress is positive, but could also reverse course if it is not, she said.

Kallas cited three factors the EU will take into account: inclusivity of different groups in the government, “no radicalization,” and the inclusion of women in the process. 

The EU, along with the US and other nations, imposed heavy sanctions on Syria in 2011.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for a “smart approach,” saying: “Sanctions against Assad’s henchmen who committed serious crimes during the civil war must remain in place.”

The German foreign minister said that the internal process for Syria must not be disrupted, adding that “all neighboring states must respect Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.”

Baerbock also announced that Germany will spend €50 million ($51.3 million) on humanitarian aid for Syria, and added: “The key to a safe Syria lies in the region, but first of all in the hands of all Syrians.”

She underlined that “joint support is now essential,” and said that Germany will continue to stand with the people of Syria to contribute to a “peaceful transition for everyone.”

The foreign minister highlighted Germany’s focus on “preventing the resurgence of an Islamic state, something we expect from the new leadership in Damascus.”

In a message released to the media, Saudi Arabia affirmed its support for the Syrian people and their choices at this “critical juncture in Syria’s history.”

The Kingdom called on the international community to stand by and collaborate with the Syrian people “in all that serves the country.”

Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel’s decision to expand settlements in the occupied Golan Heights and called on the global community to denounce Israeli violations of Syria’s territorial integrity, reaffirming that the area is Syrian Arab land under occupation.