Saudi Arabia warns drylands crisis demands urgent action now

Saudi Arabia hosted the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) for the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) from December 2 to December 13, 2024. The event focused on urgent global issues like land degradation, desertification, and drought. During the conference, a report revealed that over three-quarters of the Earth's land has experienced drier climates over the last three decades, indicating a worrying trend in the expansion of drylands. The number of people living in these drylands has also increased dramatically, doubling from 1.2 billion to 2.3 billion since the late 20th century. Dr. Osama Faqeeha, Deputy Minister for Environment, emphasized the need for robust actions and innovative solutions to combat these challenges. As part of Sustainability Innovation Week, which coincided with COP16, new initiatives were launched, including the International Water Research Center, aimed at improving water sustainability. This center is a collaborative effort involving the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). The initiative is designed to redefine approaches to sustainable water management amid growing concerns about water scarcity due to climate change and increasing population pressures. Several other partnerships and innovation projects were also announced during the week, totaling more than $25 million in research funding. These initiatives include collaborations focusing on enhancing soil quality and innovations in the date and palm industry, which are critical for Saudi Arabia’s agricultural sustainability. High-level dialogues facilitated a platform for civil society organizations to discuss translating scientific findings into actionable policies, enhancing cooperation among environmental stakeholders. COP16 also marked the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD, emphasizing the crucial role of science and technology in achieving sustainability goals. The overarching aim of COP16 is to foster multilateral action that addresses land tenure issues, drought resilience, and measures to mitigate the effects of sand and dust storms. As the global community grapples with escalating environmental challenges, the discussions and outcomes from this pivotal conference are positioned to shape future policies and strategies aimed at restoring and preserving precious land resources.