In a remarkable achievement, Saudi Arabia recorded a 90% decrease in the incidence of dust and sand storms during June 2024, the first such significant drop in over 20 years. This impressive result is directly attributed to the environmental initiatives implemented under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 program.
The Saudi Green Initiative (SGI), launched in 2021 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been a driving force behind this success. SGI aims to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tons per annum by 2030, plant 10 billion trees, and protect 30% of Saudi Arabia’s land and sea.
“Climate action will enhance competitiveness, spark innovation and create millions of high-quality jobs,” stated the Crown Prince. “Young people, both in the Kingdom and the world, are demanding a cleaner, greener and more inclusive future, and we owe it to them to deliver on this.”
Since its inception, SGI has activated 77 initiatives representing an investment of more than $186 billion. In 2022 alone, 18 million trees were planted, 60,000 hectares of land were rehabilitated, and 1,200 endangered animals were rewilded across 15 different locations in the country.
The decrease in dust storms is a testament to the effectiveness of these efforts. Dust storms have been a persistent challenge in Saudi Arabia, with the country experiencing some of the most intense and frequent such events globally.
However, with the implementation of sustainable agriculture practices, conservation efforts, and the creation of wildlife sanctuaries, the Kingdom is making significant strides in tackling this issue. The use of advanced technologies, such as machine learning models to forecast dust storm frequency, has also contributed to the improved situation.
This achievement not only benefits the environment but also has positive implications for public health, transportation, and economic development in Saudi Arabia. As the country continues to work towards its ambitious Vision 2030 goals, the reduction in dust storms serves as an encouraging sign of progress and a model for other nations to follow.