Saudi Arabia continues to tackle climate change, positioning itself as a key player on the global stage. The kingdom announced a significant investment of $2.5 billion towards the Middle East Green Initiative. This initiative, rapidly gaining global attention, aims to tackle climate change on a regional scale.

Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy of the kingdom, announced during a panel discussion titled “Saudi Arabia’s Efforts in Climate Change.” This discussion was part of the inaugural National Greening Forum, a two-day event convening local, regional, and international environmental experts.

Jubeir highlighted the significance of afforestation as a crucial component of the kingdom’s strategy for tackling climate change, which resonates with the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. He underscored the interdependence of the global community, emphasizing that a healthy environment benefits everyone.

“As the world’s largest oil producer,” Jubeir said, “the kingdom feels a responsibility toward the climate and aims to lead efforts in combating climate change, not only by adhering to international standards but also by shaping them.”

Jubeir highlighted the broader security and economic ramifications of climate change. He pointed out that droughts and floods can lead to regional instability and disrupt supply chains, ultimately impacting consumers negatively.

The Saudi Green Initiative and the broader Middle East Green Initiative, launched by the Crown Prince, were highlighted as key elements of the kingdom’s environmental stewardship.

These initiatives leverage Saudi Arabia’s expertise in areas like circular carbon economy and land rehabilitation to achieve region-wide reductions in carbon emissions and desertification.