Saudi Arabia Marks International Day of Forests with Focus on Conservation, Biodiversity

Saudi Arabia actively marks the International Day of Forests, observed annually on March 21, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of vegetation cover, highlight forest types and tree species worldwide, and underscore their role in sustaining ecological and biological diversity.

 Saudi Arabia boasts a rich and diverse natural landscape that stretches across its vast territory. Most of its forests are concentrated in the southern region, particularly in the Sarawat and Hijaz mountain ranges. These include mountain forests, valley forests, and coastal mangrove forests. Each type boasts distinct characteristics and is home to plant species that thrive in the specific environmental and climatic conditions of its region.

 Forests play a vital role in enhancing food security. They support beekeeping and honey production, provide grazing land, and enable agroforestry practices that yield fruits and vegetables.

 Forests also contribute to the production of medicinal goods, generate employment opportunities, promote economic development, and boost eco-tourism and recreational activities. Importantly, forests are instrumental in supporting global sustainable development goals by mitigating and adapting to climate change and combating desertification.

 The National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification in the Kingdom is actively engaged in rehabilitating degraded forest sites, monitoring and protecting vegetation, addressing encroachments, and combating illegal logging. It oversees the management and investment of rangelands, forests, and national parks, supporting environmental sustainability and aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030 objectives.