Riyadh invests 175,000 plots of land to create ‘Desert Park City‘. This city will include local afforestation and various rock formations.
‘Desert Park’, is a project that aligns with the broader Saudi Green Initiative.
This initiative reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental sustainability and improving urban life.
Green Riyadh Program
Launched in 2019 by King Salman bin Abdulaziz and championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Green Riyadh Program aims to substantially increase green spaces in the city.
The project involves the planting of over 7.5 million trees across Riyadh, contributing to a significant reduction in temperatures, dust levels, and enhancing overall air quality.
Key aspects of the program include:
- Planting trees along 144 km of main roads.
- Development of 48 major parks and over 3,000 neighborhood parks.
- Afforestation of 272 km of valleys and 1,100 km of green belts.
- Utilization of 175,000 vacant plots of land for green purposes.
The selected trees are native to the region, like Al Sidr Al Baladi and Najdi Talh, known for their adaptability to the local climate and ability to provide extensive shade.
Environmental, Economic Benefits
The project’s environmental benefits are substantial, including a decrease in temperatures by up to 8°C in areas with intensive afforestation. The initiative also promises to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance rainwater absorption in the city.
Economically, the Green Riyadh Project is expected to yield around 71 billion riyals by 2030. This return will come through reduced healthcare expenditures, lower energy consumption, and the creation of new investment opportunities in sectors like landscaping and irrigation.
Vision 2030: A Sustainable Future
This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at reducing the Kingdom’s dependence on oil, diversifying its economy, and developing public service sectors. The Desert Park project embodies this vision by promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the quality of urban life.
The Desert Park in Riyadh is more than a green space. Firstly, it symbolizes a new, eco-friendly era in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it embodies sustainable urban development and promotes a healthier lifestyle for Riyadh’s residents.
Furthermore, the Desert Park project is transformative for Riyadh. It’s setting global benchmarks for urban environmental initiatives.
By expanding green spaces and using native plants, Riyadh is progressing towards greater sustainability. Consequently, this move positions it as a leader in environmental innovation in the Middle East.
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