Saudi Arabia has made a significant step toward a sustainable future by establishing its first national sustainability committee.

The committee, formed by the Federation of Saudi Chambers, aims to integrate eco-friendly practices into the Kingdom’s business landscape.

Chaired by Khaled bin Abdulrahman Al-Othman and vice-chaired by Nouf bint Abdulaziz Al-Ghamdi, the committee will address the pressing environmental challenges faced by the nation, including those arising from rapid industrialization and population growth.

The Saudi Green Initiative (SGI), launched in 2021, is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s sustainability strategy. The initiative targets emissions reduction, the planting of 10 billion trees, and the protection of 30% of the nation’s land and marine ecosystems.

With more than 80 programs in progress, backed by $188 billion in investments, the SGI focuses on afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and emissions reduction.

Key accomplishments include connecting 1.3 GW of renewable energy to the national grid in 2023, bringing the total renewable capacity to 4.1 GW. Additionally, four gas-fired power plants were commissioned to increase natural gas-based electricity production to 50% by 2030.

The Kingdom has also made notable progress in hydrogen production, aiming for 4 million tonnes of clean hydrogen annually, alongside efforts to sequester 27 million tonnes of CO2.