Jeddah, August 30, 2023, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Council of Royal Reserves, has approved the Royal Reserves' strategic objectives through 2030. In order to support the main strategies of the Royal Reserves, the targets, which center on afforestation, wildlife protection, employment development, and increasing visitor numbers, are set. The goals will be essential to achieving the Saudi Green Initiative's (SGI) environmental and sustainability goals, which include protecting 30% of the country's terrestrial and marine territory by 2030 and planting 10 billion trees over the following decades. 13.5% of Saudi Arabia is covered by the Royal Reserves. More than 30 species of native animals that are at risk of extinction are protected and restored thanks to them. Additionally, the Royal Reserves will help the Kingdom achieve its afforestation goals by planting more than 80 million trees and plants by the year 2030. The Royal Reserves are remarkable and distinctive ecotourism areas that are anticipated to further the Kingdom's standing as one of the top travel destinations around the globe. By 2030, they hope to protect and restore more than 15 historic sites, in addition to drawing more than 2.3 million tourists each year. By 2030, it is anticipated that these environmental and tourism-related goals will help local communities by generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities. The Council of Royal Reserves, established by Royal Decree, establishes the strategic directions for the ecosystem of the Royal Reserves in order to protect its natural and environmental elements, reintroduce wildlife, foster its growth, and promote ecotourism, while also ensuring each Royal Reserve maintains its distinct identity. The Royal Reserves Development Authority was established to formulate strategies and plans as well as oversee all facets of the organization's operations and activity implementation.
- Sheryll Mericido