"Sinking and Saving: The Role of Blue Carbon in Combating Global Warming"
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues unleash its enormous economic, geographical and cultural potential, and its pioneering efforts in sustainability and environmental conservation,”
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud
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of Date-Palm Waste in Saudi Arabia: A Sustainable Pathway for Water Treatment and Soil Enrichment
agriculture of the future - How Saudi Arabia is achieving food security with AI, hyperfood and sustainable water management
from the Earth and Continue with
Starts Beneath Your Feet: The Link Between
Pollution and Human
Editorial Opening – Saudi Sustainability Magazine, Issue 6
Welcome to the sixth issue of Saudi Sustainability Magazine
As we continue our journey toward a more sustainable and resilient future, this edition arrives at a critical moment when the global community is intensifying efforts to confront the escalating climate crisis. Rising temperatures, sealevel rise, and extreme weather events remind us daily of the urgent need to innovate, adapt, and act decisively In this context, we are proud to present a special focus on an often underappreciated but immensely powerful natural solution: blue carbon
Our feature article, “Sinking and Saving: The Role of Blue Carbon in Combating Global Warming,” explores the remarkable capacity of coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes to capture and store vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Unlike terrestrial forests, these blue carbon habitats sequester carbon at rates up to four times higher per unit area, making them vital allies in the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations Beyond carbon storage, these ecosystems provide a suite of invaluable benefits: they nurture biodiversity, support sustainable fisheries, protect shorelines from erosion and storm surges, and sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities
For Saudi Arabia, a nation embracing ambitious sustainability goals as part of Vision 2030, the potential of blue carbon ecosystems is both a strategic opportunity and a call to stewardship While our region’s arid climate poses challenges to terrestrial carbon sinks, our extensive coastlines and unique marine environments offer promising prospects for blue carbon conservation and restoration Investing in these ecosystems aligns with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental protection, economic diversification, and climate resilience
This issue takes a deep dive into the science behind blue carbon, highlighting cutting-edge research and successful restoration projects from around the world We examine the challenges faced in protecting these fragile habitats from coastal development pressures to pollution—and discuss innovative policy frameworks and community-led initiatives that are making a difference Through expert insights and inspiring stories, we aim to raise awareness of how blue carbon can be integrated into national climate strategies and global carbon markets, unlocking new pathways for sustainable development
As we share these insights, we invite our readers policy makers, scientists, business leaders, educators, and citizens alike to reflect on the vital role each of us plays in safeguarding our planet’s natural carbon sinks The fight against climate change requires bold action and collaboration across all sectors of society By protecting and restoring blue carbon ecosystems, we not only help mitigate global warming but also enhance biodiversity, secure food resources, and build resilience against the impacts of climate change
Together, let us embrace the promise of blue carbon sinking carbon to save our planet, one ecosystem at a time. Thank you for joining us on this important journey
Sincerely,
Dr. Mohammed S. Al-Surf SPSA
Founder & President
WhySPSA wasfounded?
Saudi Arabia faces the problem of a lack of professionalism and consistency in the emerging field of sustainability in the country. Currently, there are no standardized certifications, professional designations, or credentials for sustainability professionals in the country This creates issues around consistency in job titles, salaries, and the scope of work for those in sustainability roles. It also limits career progression and credibility for sustainability professionals
To address this problem, SPSA aims to establish a professional membership program with designations and credentials in sustainability
This program will define standard job titles, salary bands, and competency requirements for different roles in the sustainability field. It will provide pathways for career progression through continuous professional development. The program will also establish SPSA as a thought leader in the space and build credibility for the sustainability profession in Saudi Arabia
Lackof professional standards
the lack of professional standards in sustainability creates problems for both employers and professionals in Saudi Arabia. By developing a robust professional membership program, SPSA can help define and elevate the sustainability profession, enabling its members to have successful and impactful careers
Key problems facing sustainability professionals and organizations in Saudi Arabia are:
A lack of awareness about sustainability best practices which limits adoption of sustainability initiatives
The absence of a professional membership organization to support, connect and set standards
Difficulty for organizations in determining and accessing sustainability expertise
Untapped opportunities for global partnerships and collaboration on sustainability issues
Prosperity
Peace
Partnership
Vision:
SPSA Pillars
Giving priority to the welfare of People of all backgrounds, ethnicity, religion, etc.
Protect our planet's natural resources and climate for future generations.
Ensure prosperous and fulfilling lives in harmony with nature.
Foster peaceful, just and inclusive society.
Implement the agenda through a solid global partnership.
Create a thriving community of sustainability professionals who are equipped with the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to drive positive change towards a more sustainable future in Saudi Arabia
Mission:
Creating an international multi-sector platform in Saudi Arabia that adopts sustainable measures and collaborates to find solutions to today’s most pressing economic, environmental and socio-political problems
"Sinking and Saving: The Role of Blue Carbon in Combating Global Warming"
"Sinking
and Saving: The
Role
of Blue Carbon in Combating Global Warming"
SPSA Editorial
Climate change is an urgent global challenge. Blue carbon, or carbon captured and stored in coastal ecosystems, has a critical role to play in combating global warming Through protection and restoration of these ecosystems, we can both reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and help preserve important habitats. We must act now to save our planet and secure our future.
1. Introduction
As the world continues to grapple with the devastating effects of climate change, the need for urgent action cannot be overstated. One solution that has gained increasing attention in recent years is the role of blue carbon in combating global warming Blue carbon refers to the carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes These ecosystems are highly effective at capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil and sediment, making them a crucial component in the fight against climate change However, despite their importance, these ecosystems are under threat from human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing It is therefore imperative that we take steps to protect and restore these ecosystems, not only for their role in mitigating climate change but also for the countless other benefits they provide, including protecting coastlines from erosion, providing habitat for marine life, and supporting local economies In this blog, we will explore the importance of blue carbon and the actions we can take to sink and save it.
2. What is Blue Carbon?
Blue carbon refers to the carbon that is stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes These ecosystems are incredibly effective at sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their soils. In fact, they are estimated to store up to 10 times more carbon per unit area than terrestrial forests. However, these ecosystems are under threat from human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing. When they are degraded or destroyed, the carbon that they have stored is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming Protecting and restoring these ecosystems is therefore crucial in the fight against climate change Blue carbon is not just important for its role in mitigating climate change, but also for the many other benefits that these ecosystems provide, such as coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and supporting local livelihoods. It is urgent that we recognize the value of blue carbon and take action to protect and restore these vital ecosystems.
3. How Does Blue Carbon Combat Global Warming?
Blue carbon refers to the carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes These ecosystems are highly efficient at absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making them a critical tool in the fight against global warming. When these ecosystems are degraded or destroyed, the carbon stored within them is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect. By protecting and restoring these ecosystems, we can not only prevent the release of carbon but also continue to absorb and store more carbon from the atmosphere In fact, it is estimated that the conservation and restoration of blue carbon ecosystems could potentially sequester up to 1 billion tons of carbon per year, equivalent to taking 200 million cars off the road Blue carbon is a powerful tool in the fight against global warming, and urgent action is needed to protect these ecosystems and harness their potential for carbon sequestration.
4. Challenges of Implementing Blue Carbon Solutions
The potential benefits of blue carbon solutions are undeniable, but the challenges of implementing them are equally significant One of the biggest challenges is the lack of awareness and understanding of blue carbon among policymakers and the general public This has resulted in inadequate funding and insufficient policy support for blue carbon projects Additionally, the lack of standardized methodologies for measuring and monitoring blue carbon stocks and emissions has made it difficult to accurately quantify the benefits of these solutions. Another challenge is the limited availability of suitable coastal habitats for blue carbon projects, as many of these areas are already developed or subject to competing land uses Finally, the long-term sustainability of blue carbon projects is also a concern, as natural disasters, climate change, and other factors can potentially disrupt or destroy these habitats Addressing these challenges will require concerted efforts from governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to increase awareness, promote funding and policy support, develop standardized methodologies, and identify and protect suitable coastal habitats for blue carbon projects.
5. The Benefits of Investing in Blue Carbon
Investing in blue carbon is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the economy Blue carbon refers to the carbon that is stored in coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes These ecosystems have the potential to sequester large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the soil and vegetation. By investing in blue carbon, we can not only combat global warming but also create economic opportunities for coastal communities. Blue carbon projects can generate revenue through carbon credits, ecotourism, and sustainable fisheries Moreover, these projects can provide jobs and improve the livelihoods of local communities Investing in blue carbon is a win-win situation for both the environment and the economy It is crucial that we recognize the importance of these coastal ecosystems and take action to protect them By investing in blue carbon, we can sink carbon and save the planet while also creating economic opportunities for coastal communities.
6. Conclusion: The Time to Take Action is Now
In conclusion, the time to take action is now when it comes to combating global warming through the use of blue carbon The world's oceans and coastal ecosystems are in a state of crisis, and the only way to save them is by taking immediate action By protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems, we can not only mitigate the effects of climate change but also provide numerous benefits to our planet. The carbon stored in these ecosystems is a valuable resource that can be utilized to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change. However, time is of the essence, and we must act quickly to ensure that these ecosystems are protected before it's too late We must work together as a global community to raise awareness and take action to protect our oceans and coastal ecosystems The future of our planet depends on it, and we cannot afford to wait any longer Let us take action now to save our planet for future generations
CHEMICAL HYDRIDES FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FUTURE
Benjamin Franklin once wrote “ in this world nothing can be said to be certain but death and taxes.” Well ,there is at least one more thing that can be said to be certain in this world, the limited supply of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas on which the world depends for much of its energy needs With a growing world population and an increasing standard of living, it is not a question of if but when the world will run out of fossil fuels In addition, fuels have an adverse effect on the environment as they are responsible for the increasing CO2 content in the Earth's atmosphere. Thus, there has never been a time when the demand for clean and sustainable energy was greater.
Chemical hydrides are definitely potential candidate as hydrogen storage and supply material aromatics– cycloalkanes pairs are potential candidate for high capacity hydrogen storage. Since these can be transported at near ambient conditions may be most useful for long distance transportation of hydrogen. The endothermic reaction of dehydrogenation can be carried out effectively with advanced reactor systems such as spray-pulsed injection for creating alternate wet and dry conditions over catalyst surface Development of efficient dehydrogenation catalyst is important particularly considering the cost of Pt-based catalysts. At present the efforts are apparent from recent publications for using minimum amount of Pt for dehydrogenation of cycloalkanes As LOH can be recycled or alternatively aromatics can be supplied as solvent to chemical industries, this method of hydrogen storage and supply would be economically feasible
Chemical hydrides are typically composed of lighter elements .This result in higher gravimetric hydrogen storage capacities, along with ease of hydrogen release which is similar to complex hydrides Chemical hydrides can exist in either solid or liquid state, and can be heated directly, passed through a catalyst containing reactor, or combined with water (i.e. hydrolysis)or other reactants to produce hydrogen. Among chemical hydrides, ammonia borane (AB) is reported as a potential material for hydrogen storage due to its high hydrogen capacity Hydrogen containing chemicals which are useful for storage of hydrogen include methanol, ammonia and cycloalkanes At STP all these are in liquid phase and therefore provide advantage of possibility of using existing infrastructure being used for gasoline
Author: ALI AKBAR ET
Bio:
Solicitous Chemical Engineer with the capacity to incorporate the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop positive solutions to environmental problems Main working skills and interest lies in the fields of improving recycling, waste disposal management, public health, and water and air pollution control. Methodically addresses global issues like unsafe drinking water, climate change, and environmental stability Completed M Tech In Process Engineering, B-Tech In Chemical Engineering &Diploma In Chemical Engineering
ENERGY SYSTEM CONCEPT
There are four fundamental tenets associated with the Energy system concept illustrated in Figure
1 That the source chemical hydrides can be delivered to the on-board storage tank in their near-solid storage densities
2. That water and other products of the convertor will be available to the hydride processor to maximize its efficiency.
3. That the products can be collected in a form that will permit easy transfer to the off-board reprocess station at the time of refueling
4 That the resulting products can be economically returned to source metal hydrides at the off-board station
Typically, hydrogen can be generated from chemical hydrides via two mechanisms: through a direct reaction with water or through thermal decomposition. While both mechanisms arepossible for most materials, only one is likely to be practical.
Energy system concept of chemical hydride Source:(Doe hydrogen storage goals with chemical hydrides)
CYCLOALKANES FOR HYDROGEN STORAGE
Several cycloalkanes may be used as hydrogen carrier as LOH include cyclohexane, methylcyclohexane, teralin, decalin, cyclohexylbenzene, bicyclohexyl, 1-methyldecalin, etc A few reactions of dehydrogenation of cycloalkanes are depicted in table
Dehydrogenation of cycloalkanes( International Journal of Hydrogen Energy 33-2008)
One mole of cycloalkane has potential to transport 3–6 mol of hydrogen The endothermic energy requirement for these reactions is in the range of 64–69 kJ per mole of H2 this is much lower than energy that could be obtained by oxidation of H2, 248 kJ/mol Hydrogen storage capacities of cycloalkanes and other storage media are compared in the Table2 along with boiling and melting points. Due to high boiling points of cycloalkanes, the present infrastructure such as oil tankers and tank lorries can be used for the long term storage and long distance transportation of hydrogen in the form of LOH.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
Hydrogen has gained more and more attention, as it is generally considered as one of clean energy resources Chemical hydride have some advantages such as:
The use of hydride materials that are generally nontoxic and stable until combined with water or thermally decomposed
The ability to produce a low pressure, non-venting source of hydrogen that can be regulated according to hydrogen demand
The application of a system-level approach that attempts to integrate all components associated with chemical hydride-based storage in order to maximize efficiency
Produce ultrapure hydrogen presence of adequate catalysts at room temperature
High gravimetric hydrogen storage density.
Low operation pressure
Low energy loss
The primary technical issues associated with its development include:
Achieving high hydrogen yield from a compact hydride processor
Developing efficient and cost competitive hydride reprocessing technologies
Developing effective and reliable methods of delivering hydride and removing products
Matching operational characteristics of the hydride reprocessor with the energy convertor
Developing compact, economical, reusable, and durable system hardware
Ensuring a high level of safety in both the operational system and the refueling process
PATENTS AVAILABLE
Patents have appeared claiming use of chemical hydrides including various solid hydrides, liquid hydrides and particularly LOH Solid hydrides such as NaBH4, LiBH4,KBH4, RbBH4 are reported for storage of hydrogen effectively The chemical hydride hydrogen generation system here uses the solute, which is selected from the group consisting of NaBH4, LiBH4, KBH4, RbBH4 A similar method of generating and storing hydrogen has been disclosed in world patent WO 01/51410 using a chemical hydride solution, such as NaBH4 As described in this patent, chemical hydride reacts with water in the presence of a catalyst to generate hydrogen. The drawback of these methods is relatively low hydrogen content as compared to possible storage in cycloalkanes and irreversible dehydrogenation leading to no-recycling of the hydrides
Another class of chemical hydrides reported in various prior arts is liquid organic hydride Hydrogen evolution during dehydrogenation of methylcyclohexane, decalin dicyclohexyl andcyclohexane to toluene, naphthalene, biphenyl and benzenerespectively, in the presence of iridium-based molecular complex catalyst is disclosed.The storage and release of hydrogen by means of a substantially reversible catalytic hydrogenation of extended piconjugated substrates is described in US Patent 20050002857 The pi-conjugated substrates include large polycyclicaromatic hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with nitrogen hetero atoms, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with oxygen hetero atoms, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with alkyl, alkoxy, nitrile, ketone, ether or polyether substituents ,pi-conjugated molecules comprising five membered rings, pi- conjugated molecules comprising six and five membered rings with nitrogen or oxygen hetero atoms, and extended piconjugated organic polymers.
The hydrogen storage capacity obtained was in the range of 1–4 7% by weight which is relatively low for economical use of these chemicals Use of benzene, toluene, xylene, mesitylene, naphthalene, anthracene, biphenyl, phenanthrene andtheir alkyl derivativesas possible aromatic substrates for producing hydrogen for fuelcells has been reported in Japanese patents . Whereas, in another Japanese patent hydrogen storage and supply system is described with catalyst containing at least one metal selected from Ni, Pd, Pt, Rh, Ir, Ru, Mo, Re, W, V, Os, Cr, Co and Fe having good activity for both hydrogenation of hydrogen storage body comprising an aromatic compound and dehydrogenation of a hydrogen supply body comprising the hydrogenated derivative of aromatic compound A Japanese patent JP2002134141 describes the equipment used for dehydrogenation of LOH with arrangement for intermittent supply of prescribed amount of liquid organic hydride and a product separator for separating hydrogen from other products. It is apparent, from increasing patent applications in the field of chemical hydrides for storage of hydrogen, that the method has potential for practical applications.
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION STUDY (HAZID STUDY)
Expert members performed a HAZID study to imagine and present every hazard and undesirable scenario during brainstorming sessions They referred to safety data sheets and accident databases to investigate and understand chemical properties and equipment vulnerabilities in the station for qualitative analysis and consulted the HAZID study for hydrogen infrastructures .For better objectivity and logicality, the team associated accident scenarios with guidewords . Hybrid fueling station hazards consist of natural hazards, external event hazards, chemical hazards, and process hazards Many types of natural hazards and external event hazards were incorporated into guidewords so as to not overlook hidden scenarios and to roughly identify station risks The HAZID study used station layout hazards to discover problems in the station design Hybrid event hazards were set up to search for unique scenarios with coexistent gasoline and hydrogen, which stand-alone hydrogen or gasoline stations do not have. In this study, identified only hybrid risks due to the coexistence between gasoline and organic chemical hydride systems.
The HAZID study identified 314 accident scenarios for the coexistence of gasoline and organic chemical hydride systems For example:
1 MCH leaks due to a pipe work fracture by fatigue or corrosion in an organic chemical hydride system MCH then flows to the gasoline dispenser, and is ignited, causing a MCH pool fire.
2. An earthquake affects the dehydrogenation reactor, and MCH, toluene, and hydrogen leak though a damaged area MCH and toluene pool fires or a hydrogen explosion occurs if they are ignited
3 A massive amount of gasoline leaks from an operating gasoline lorry A gasoline pool fire affects an organic chemical hydride system, and MCH, toluene, and/or hydrogen eventually leak due to damage by thermal radiation of the pool fire
REFERENCE
[1] M Klanchar, T G Hughes, P Gruber “Attaining doe hydrogen storage goals with chemical hydrides”
[2] Rajesh B Biniwalea,, S Rayalua, S Devottaa, M Ichikawab
“Chemical hydrides: Asolution to high capacity hydrogen storage and supply” International Journal of Hydrogen Energy 33 (2008) 360 – 365
*Stewart Udall
“Plans to protect air and water, wilderness and wildlife are in fact plans to protect man.”
STEWART UDALL
Sustainability Starts with “ME first”: Applying the 3Rs and Buying Local in Riyadh or your city
Introduction
Sustainability starts at home. While national initiatives like Vision 2030 and Green Riyadh aim to make a large-scale environmental impact, individual actions remain crucial in driving real, lasting change Living in a fast-developing city like Riyadh means we have both the opportunity and responsibility to make our lifestyles more sustainable.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is by following the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, and by supporting local products These everyday habits help conserve resources, reduce pollution, and strengthen the local economy while making life more mindful and responsible.
Author: Anubhav Mishra
1. Reduce: Consume Less, Waste Less
Reducing it means cutting down on the amount of waste we produce from the beginning In Riyadh, where consumption patterns are high and packaging waste is common, this is especially important.
How You Can Reduce in Riyadh:
Avoid single-use plastics: Carry reusable bags, water bottles, and containers
Plan your meals to avoid food waste, especially during Ramadan or festive seasons
Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
Use energy-efficient appliances and switch off electronics when not in use.
Limit water uses by installing water-saving taps and being mindful of excessive use during cleaning or gardening
It is advised to consult a professional for the appropriate expenditure on the water saving tips, this might save some money in the long run for you.
An Architect with more than 25 years of experience working in KSA since more than 11 years, A LEED AP, MOSTADAM AP and Indian Green Building Council AP An architect with modern approach to design buildings with Sustainability as a prime role and have worked on many prestigious projects of Kingdom including NEOM, Royal Commission, PIF projects and many Govt and Private projects Before he moved to KSA he worked with Total Oil and Gas in Nigeria heading TATA, also worked with Top architectural firms in India and US based firms
2. Reuse: Extend Life of What You Own
Reusing items helps reduce the demand for new products, saving resources and energy
Everyday Reuse Ideas:
Repurpose glass jars, containers, and boxes for storage or crafts
Glass is the best advisable reusable as this is the best healthy jars you can keep the water and food. Steel is an alternate, but I personally prefer glass.
Donate clothes, furniture, and electronics instead of discarding them By donating you are not only diverting from the landfill but helping others financially
Use rechargeable batteries and refillable cleaning products Rechargeable batteries will not only save you money but is environmentally friendly
Turn old clothes into cleaning rags or upcycled fashion items. This is the best advice because these cotton clothes when used are better absorbent for dust and water spills.
Participate in community swap events or online resale groups in Riyadh If you don’t find the group nearby, please do advise your kids to create small groups in their neighborhood or in their school
3. Recycle: Give Waste a Second Life
While recycling infrastructure in Riyadh is still developing, awareness and access are growing rapidly. The key is to separate recyclable items and dispose of them properly.
What You Can Recycle:
Paper, cardboard, and plastic (check for recycling bins in malls or neighborhoods), If You have your own office and there are one side papers, please install a binding machine next to the office printer to encourage people to reuse the papers in office by converting the scrap paper to reusable notebooks.
E-waste such as phones and chargers several tech stores and recycling centers accept these. Do not hesitate to post an advertisement on social media for your E waste Scrap, this might be useful for someone, and this reduce of waste is helpful to save environment, Remember every drop counts
Metal cans and glass bottles collect and bring to designated recycling points
Organic waste try composting at home if you have a garden or small space These are difficult practices in the region, Lets hope some small plant nurseries nearby bring these initiatives in future to collect the organic waste from locality. On small scale some of the organic waste can be a very good for your flower plants in your kitchen garden
The Riyadh Municipality and private initiatives are increasing efforts to promote recycling, so staying informed about local programs can help you contribute
Buy Local: Supporting Sustainability and Community
Choosing local products reduces transportation emissions and supports the regional economy. It also promotes cultural pride and job creation.
Why Buy Local in Riyadh?
Fresh produce from Saudi farms is more sustainable than imported goods They are healthier also compared to the packed food.
Local crafts, textiles, and home goods often have a smaller carbon footprint. They may be cheaper but you need to explore for the best choice.
Supporting Saudi entrepreneurs and small businesses strengthens community resilience
Farmers' markets and local e-commerce platforms offer eco-conscious alternatives
In Riyadh, where modern life moves fast and conveniences are abundant, it’s easy to forget how our daily choices impact the environment. But by adopting the simple principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and by buying local, you play a direct role in making your city cleaner, greener, and more sustainable.
Small actions multiplied across households and communities can transform Riyadh into a city that thrives not just economically, but also environmentally ensuring a better future for generations to come We recommend to have local market places in every neighborhood with preferred local Saudi Made shops are developed and encouraged.
"Make a big impact by making a little impact"
From Mega Events to Mega Impact: Why Circular Thinking Must Shape Saudi Arabia’s Future
Introduction: The Stakes Are High
Saudi Arabia stands at the threshold of a new global chapter one that will see the Kingdom hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034, a future World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, and a portfolio of giga-projects under Vision 2030, including NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea developments. These events promise global prestige, economic gains, and national pride
But with great opportunity comes great responsibility The question is no longer just how well the Saudis can organize these events, but what kind of legacy they will leave. Will they build spectacular but wasteful moments, or seize this moment to design a future-ready, resourceefficient Saudi Arabia?
To succeed, there must be a reimagining of the approach not just planning for the event, but planning for what comes after. This is where the circular economy becomes more than a trend—it becomes a national strategy
The True Cost of Linear Thinking for Mega Events
Most mega events around the world follow a linear model: build big, use once, dispose fast. While it may deliver short-term convenience, but this “take-make-waste” approach has costly consequences:
Economically, billions are spent on short-lived infrastructure that may be underused after the event
Environmentally, it leads to high emissions, landfill overuse, and strain on water and energy systems—especially critical in arid regions
Socially, it misses opportunities for local businesses, job creation, and community empowerment
For example, after some Olympics and World Cups, entire neighborhoods were cleared for unused stadiums that now sit abandoned Without circular planning, Saudi Arabia risks repeating these mistakes at a much larger and more visible scale
Author:
Eng. Asim Mohamed Widatalla
Eng Asim Widatalla is dedicated to creating sustainability through better management of resources, he is a certified Advisor for the Total Resource Use and Efficiency system, (TRUE is a certification system administered by the US Green Business Certification Inc to to re-designing and implement a Zero Waste rating system for commercial business and industries).
Eng. Asim holds two master of science degrees from Luleå University of Technology and Linköping University in Sweden, in Environmental Engineering & Sustainable Development respectively
Eng Asim has worked in environment and sustainability field for 16 years and is currently the Executive Manager at NordTech Consulting company in Sweden, and his expertise lies in waste management and circular economy applications blending business acumen with a passion for fostering sustainable practices, driving companies towards a more circular and regenerative future
Learning from the Region and Within
We don’t have to look far for inspiration. Saudi Arabia’s neighbors offer valuable case studies and there is also a local experience to build upon
Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022
Qatar set ambitious sustainability targets, including stadiums designed for disassembly and claims of carbon neutrality. Yet challenges in transport emissions, material waste, and limited post-event use revealed the need for deeper integration of circular principles not just green branding.
UAE’s Expo 2020 Dubai
Dubai’s Expo made strides in circular architecture, turning pavilions into permanent community assets and embedding sustainability education throughout the visitor journey However, temporary packaging and imported materials still created avoidable waste.
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj: A Proven Mega-Event Model
Every year, 2 to 3 million pilgrims converge in Makkah during Hajj a spiritual gathering that tests logistics, infrastructure, and resource flow like no other The Kingdom’s ability to manage this recurring event with temporary shelters, mass catering, transport, and waste systems is a logistical success admired globally
The Mina tent city, food distribution networks, and structured mobility corridors demonstrate the local capacity for mega-scale planning. The opportunity now is to upgrade these systems with circularity in mind creating models not just for religious events, but for global gatherings
Key Areas to Embed Circularity in Saudi Mega Events
The path forward lies in embedding circular principles into every layer of event planning not as a separate “green” track, but as the foundation for design, delivery, and legacy. This is where Saudi decision-makers, event organizers, ministerial committees, and the hospitality sector must act boldly The following areas are critical:
1. Venue & Infrastructure Design: Build Once, Use Forever
Design stadiums, pavilions, and facilities to be modular, reusable, and adaptable.
Introduce material passports for all building elements to enable future reuse.
Use local, bio-based, or recycled materials to reduce embodied emissions
Equip venues with solar energy, greywater reuse, and smart building systems
Apply lessons from Mina’s semi-permanent tents to reimagine scalable, reusable infrastructure
2. Hospitality & Food Systems: Design Out Waste, Boost Local Impact
Implement reusable food service systems with digital tracking and return incentives.
Mandate zero food waste policies for vendors and caterers
Source ingredients from local farms and SMEs, reducing transport emissions and creating economic value
Integrate onsite composting units and donate surplus meals through a strong partnership with food banks and apps to redistribute surplus meals
Localize food supply chains to cut import emissions, and create economic value.
3. Mobility & Logistics: Move People and Materials Smarter
Deploy electric, shared, and autonomous transport options for guests and workers. Use smart mobility platforms to optimize routing and reduce congestion.
Integrate Hajj-style crowd flow management systems (geofencing, real-time monitoring)
Create reverse logistics hubs to collect and redistribute reusable items and materials after the event
4. Materials & Procurement: Buy Less, Buy Smarter
Adopt circular procurement policies only purchase items that are recyclable, reusable, or compostable.
Eliminate single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging in all event zones.
Develop a national reuse marketplace to share signage, furniture, fencing, and supplies between events
Encourage vendor pooling to reduce duplication in logistics and packaging
5. Community Engagement & Long-Term Legacy: Design for People, Not Just Press
Provide training programs for youth, SMEs, and hospitality workers in circular practices.
Treat events as living labs testing innovations in waste reduction, energy use, and reuse systems.
Ensure temporary structures are repurposed into schools, housing, or public infrastructure after the event
Design interactive visitor experiences that educate and inspire behavior change
Strategic Recommendations for Decision-Makers
To bring this vision to life, government leaders, event organizers, and ministries must work together. Key steps include:
1.Establish a national framework for Circular Events aligned with Vision 2030.
2 Make circularity a requirement in all RFPs and contracts for vendors and infrastructure providers
3 Launch a Circular Innovation Fund to support local entrepreneurs, material innovators, and reuse logistics
4 Create a multi-ministerial task force involving urban planning, tourism, environment, and logistics to align efforts.
5.Collaborate regionally with Qatar, UAE, and other GCC states to share knowledge, tools, and benchmarks.
Conclusion: Hosting the World, Honoring the Future
Saudi Arabia has already proven it can organize the largest recurring human gathering on Earth Hajj Now, the Kingdom has a chance to show the world how mega-events can be reimagined not only as showcases of culture and infrastructure, but as models of regeneration and resilience.
Circular thinking is not just an environmental imperative it is a strategic advantage. The world is watching. Let’s make sure what they see is not just greatness in the moment, but greatness that lasts
“WE CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH OF NATURE.”
Henry David Thoreau
Turning Waste into Wealth How Saudi
Arabia is Powering Vision 2030 Through Resource Reuse and Digital Innovation
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound transformation, positioning sustainability and the circular economy at the center of its national agenda. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom is reimagining waste management—not simply as an environmental necessity, but as a strategic driver of economic diversification, innovation, and global leadership At the heart of this transformation is a renewed focus on resource reuse maximizing the value of materials by keeping them in use for as long as possible This article examines Saudi Arabia’s evolving waste management paradigm, its alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the pivotal role of digital platforms, such as Excess Materials Exchange (EME), in unlocking new value across the resource value chain
From Landfills to Resource Hubs: A Shifting Waste Paradigm Historically, Saudi Arabia’s waste management relied on linear “takemake-dispose” practices. The country generates over 130 million tons of waste annually, with construction and demolition waste (CDW) alone accounting for about 50 million tons nearly half of all municipal solid waste For decades, most of this waste ended up in unmanaged landfills or open dumpsites, resulting in environmental degradation, lost economic value, and public health concerns.
This is changing rapidly Waste is increasingly viewed as a valuable resource, primarily as the Kingdom undertakes massive infrastructure projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project The national directive now is to embed sustainability and resource reuse into the DNA of urban development, transforming waste management from a liability into an opportunity for growth and innovation.
Author: Ayman A. Elsafadi
Senior executive with 19+ years of success in strategic waste management, sustainability, and digital innovation Expert in circular economy, data monetization, and regulatory compliance Proven leader in driving revenue growth, stakeholder alignment, and transformative initiatives through advanced technologies and crossfunctional project leadership across public and private sectors.
Vision 2030: Reuse as a Pillar of National Transformation
Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s blueprint for a diversified, resilient, and sustainable future. It places sustainability, waste management, resource reuse, and recycling at the core of the “An Ambitious Nation” pillar The Kingdom’s targets are among the most ambitious in the region:
Divert 82% of waste from landfills by 2035
Achieve a 94% national recycling rate by 2035
Reduce landfill disposal to just 18% of total waste
Contribute $32 billion to GDP and create 77,000 jobs by 2035 through the circular economy
Plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land
Reduce annual CO₂ emissions by 278 million tons by 2030
To achieve these goals, Saudi Arabia has established a robust regulatory and institutional framework The National Center for Waste Management (MWAN) serves as the central regulator, while the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, leads the development of recycling infrastructure and advanced waste treatment facilities The 2021 Waste Management Law mandates resource conservation, product reuse, and extended producer responsibility (EPR), laying the foundation for a truly circular economy
Resource Reuse: Targets and Potential
While official Saudi strategies break down landfill diversion into recycling, composting, and energy recovery, specific national targets for “reuse” as a standalone category are not always explicitly stated However, the overall landfill diversion target (82% by 2035, 90% by 2040) is achieved through a combination of recycling (about 40% by 2040), composting (31%), waste-to-energy (16%), resource reuse (10%), and other recovery (3%)
International best practices and circular economy frameworks, such as the 10R hierarchy, prioritize reuse immediately after reduce, rethink, and refuse making it a central pillar for landfill diversion In practical terms, resource reuse typically accounts for a growing share of total landfill diversion often estimated at 5–10% of total waste streams in advanced programs, with higher potential in sectors like construction and manufacturing As Saudi Arabia’s circular economy matures and digital platforms like EME are adopted, the proportion of resources reused could realistically reach 10% of total waste by 2035.
EME’s 10R Strategy: Reuse as a Priority
EME’s platform is built around the 10R circularity hierarchy, which places reuse directly after refuse, rethink, and reduce making it one of the highest-value strategies for material management Its features are specifically designed to maximize reuse before considering lower-value options like recycling or recovery: Inventory Management: Identifies materials that can be kept in use longer, preventing waste creation
Resource Digital Passports: Provide data to rethink and extend product lifespan, supporting design for reuse.
AI-Assisted Matching: Identifies opportunities to reuse materials in the same function or repurpose them creatively
Marketplace & Auctions: Connects materials with new users for direct reuse, repair, or refurbishment
Accelerating the SDGs Through Smart Waste Strategy
Saudi Arabia’s reuse-first strategy aligns directly with multiple UN SDGs, including:
SDG 6 (Clean Water): Preventing contamination through responsible disposal
SDG 8 (Decent Work): Creating jobs in reuse, logistics, and digital ecosystems
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption): Promoting circular procurement and reuse
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Reducing emissions through landfill diversion and material circularity
SDG 17 (Partnerships): Fostering collaboration with the private sector and international partners for reuse initiatives
Recent annual SDG progress reports highlight substantial improvements in environmental indicators, with reforms in waste management and the expansion of reuse practices driving gains in clean water, sustainable cities, and climate action.
Digital Innovation: EME is the Game Changer
Saudi Arabia’s circular economy ambitions hinge on digital transformation. Platforms like Excess Materials Exchange (EME) are leading the way by providing the transparency, traceability, and efficiency necessary to manage waste as a strategic asset. EME is a global B2B digital platform that transforms surplus materials into high-value assets, built around blockchain, AI, and IoT EME enhances material flows, connects surplus materials with new users or recycling solutions, and provides robust impact measurement tools throughout the resource value and supply chains
The EME digital platform enables organizations to:
Identify, track, and exchange excess materials
Match resources to the highest-value reuse applications
Reduce waste generation and operational costs
Quantify environmental and financial impact in real time
Core Features:
Digital Resource Passports: Provide detailed digital passports for materials, ensuring full traceability throughout their lifecycle These passports, powered by QR codes, RFID, and NFC tags, offer real-time data on composition, condition, and location
AI-Powered Matchmaking: Matches surplus materials with the highest-value reuse options, not just recycling, ensuring materials find new life in other projects.
Marketplace & Auctions: Allows businesses to list surplus materials, making them visible to a network of potential users and creating competitive bidding environments.
Contractual Security & Trade Guarantees: Simplifies contracts, ensures AML compliance, and provides trade guarantees to protect both buyers and sellers
Logistics & Storage Solutions: Coordinates logistics and storage, ensuring materials are efficiently moved and stored for future reuse.
Managed Materials Service: Supports clients through every stage of the project lifecycle, from predemolition audits and digital tagging of materials to matchmaking for reuse opportunities.
Real-World Impact: Reuse in Action
Construction & Demolition Industry:
With giga-projects scaling up across the Kingdom, CDW presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Rather than discarding steel, stone, cladding, or fixtures, these materials can be digitally tagged, logged, and matched for reuse in new developments For example, a construction company in Riyadh with surplus steel beams utilizes EME to list materials, which are instantly tagged and then matched via digital passports and AI to another project, developer, recycler, or buyer under a secure digital contract The digital passport tracks the resource’s journey, maximizes its value, and quantifies its environmental impact.
Potential Impact (2025–2030):
Diverting just 20% of 50 million tons of CDW annually could result in 10 million tons repurposed over five years
Recycling this CDW could save 5 million tons of CO₂ emissions
Unlock up to 3 billion SAR in reclaimed material value
Create thousands of jobs in reuse, logistics, and refurbishment.
Military and Defense Industry:
A military logistics unit in Saudi Arabia uses the EME platform to manage decommissioned armored vehicles and surplus equipment from modernization programs Each item is cataloged with a digital resource passport, recording its composition, history, and security classification Sensitive components are securely matched to authorized defense projects or training centers, while non-sensitive parts are listed for certified recycling or refurbishment This approach maximizes asset value, reduces procurement costs, and supports national sustainability goals, all while maintaining operational security and supply chain resilience.
Potential Impact (2025–2030):
Saudi Arabia’s defense sector aims to localize 50% of its military spending by 2030 (up from 19 35% in 2024)
By adopting digital reuse and asset tracking platforms like EME, it is realistic for 5–10% of decommissioned assets and equipment to be directly reused, refurbished, or repurposed annually by 2030.
If just 5% of annual procurement is offset through reuse, this could mean savings or value retention of over SAR 2 billion per year
Thousands of new jobs in logistics, refurbishment, compliance, and digital asset management are expected to be created by 2030
Reusing or refurbishing just 10% of heavy equipment and vehicles could prevent tens of thousands of tons of waste and associated CO₂ emissions each year.
Chemical Industry:
Saudi Arabia’s chemicals industry can leverage the EME platform to digitally register and track all imported chemicals at the national level Each chemical batch receives a digital passport detailing its composition, origin, and safety data, and is tracked via barcode or RFID as it moves from port to end-user or storage area ensuring complete visibility and compliance with Saudi regulations. The platform’s AI flags hazardous or expiring chemicals for prioritized handling, while surplus or near-expiry chemicals are matched with vetted industrial users or safe disposal partners, maximizing reuse and minimizing waste
Potential Impact (2025–2030):
A national digital passport system could ensure 100% traceability of imported chemicals, covering millions of tons of chemicals per year.
With AI-driven matching, 3–7% of surplus or near-expiry chemicals could be redirected for reuse in industry or safe disposal
The digital platform for petrochemicals delivered over 100,000 tons of raw materials to local factories in its first year
Improved reuse and digital management could save the industry hundreds of millions of SAR per year in reduced waste and optimized inventory.
Airport Industry:
Saudi Arabia operates over 29 commercial airports, including 13 international and 16 regional/domestic airports GACA partners with EME to implement a unified digital platform across all airports Every decommissioned part whether from terminal renovations, runway upgrades, or aircraft maintenance is cataloged in EME with a digital passport AI-driven matching connects reusable assets to other airports, new infrastructure projects, or certified refurbishment partners, ensuring valuable resources are kept in use rather than sent to landfill.
Potential Impact (2025–2030):
At least 29 commercial airports can participate in digital reuse and materials tracking initiatives
If each airport diverts just 500–1,000 tons of reusable materials and equipment annually, the total could reach 15,000–30,000 tons per year, or 75,000–150,000 tons over five years
Reusing and refurbishing airport assets can save an estimated 0.5–1 ton of CO₂ per ton reused.
The total economic benefit could range from 75 million to 300 million SAR over five years.
By combining the King Salman International Airport project and the nationwide reuse framework, the total number of jobs created is expected to reach 103,200 to 103,500 by 2030
Overcoming Challenges: A Cultural and Technological Shift
While the infrastructure and policy foundation are in place, several hurdles remain:
Legacy Behaviors: Disposal still dominates over reuse.
Data Gaps: Lack of standardized product passports slows traceability Awareness & Training: A mindset shift is required at all levels
SME Investment: Upfront costs of digital adoption can deter smaller players Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia is laying the groundwork for a reuse-led circular economy with the help of innovative platforms like EME.
Final Takeaways: Reuse is the New Resource
Saudi Arabia is proving that waste doesn’t have to be an environmental burden it can be a strategic asset Through Vision 2030, the Kingdom is not only addressing its waste challenge but converting it into a competitive advantage With Vision 2030 as the guiding principle and platforms like EME as the catalyst, Saudi Arabia is poised to transform its waste management landscape, delivering environmental, economic, and social value for generations to come, with reuse at the heart of this transformation.
The Sustainability Contagion Effect: How Saudi Arabia's Megaprojects Transform Regional Urban Development
Introduction
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has positioned mega and giga projects as powerful regional catalysts, with their transformative influence extending far beyond project boundaries through proximity effects We examine how flagship initiatives like NEOM, The Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, and Expo Riyadh 2030 are creating sustainability ripple effects that accelerate environmental transformation in neighboring cities and communities.
Our analysis reveals a compelling sustainability contagion effect: major megaprojects are serving as innovation incubators whose advanced technologies, governance frameworks, and environmental standards systematically spread to surrounding areas through supply chains, workforce development, and regional stakeholder networks. This creates an organic acceleration of Vision 2030 objectives that extends sustainability benefits well beyond the megaprojects themselves, fundamentally transforming how Saudi cities approach environmental challenges and regional development
Theoretical Foundations and International Precedents
Urban planning theory has long recognized proximity as a critical factor in policy and innovation diffusion Torsten Hägerstrand's spatial diffusion theory demonstrates how innovations spread through geographic space, with physical nearness enabling knowledge transfer through direct observation, workforce mobility, and supply chain integration. The concept of "contagion effects" in urban development, explored extensively in economic geography literature, describes how innovations and practices spread through networks of connected actors, creating cascading transformation beyond initial implementation sites
Author: Damien NOUVEL
Strategy and Business Development Consultant, Alandalus Property, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Damienksa@gmail com / Damien nouvel@alandalus com sa
Myriam Ben Saad
Associate Professor, Kedge Business School, Paris, France Myriam bensaad@kedgebs com
Peter Hall's seminal work "Cities in Civilization" illustrates how major urban projects create innovation ecosystems that influence entire regions through demonstration effects and economic integration. Contemporary research by McCann and Ward on "mobile policies" shows how urban innovations travel between cities, while Brenner's work on "new state spaces" reveals how large-scale projects reshape regional governance and development patterns These theoretical frameworks provide essential context for understanding Saudi Arabia's megaproject strategy as engineered sustainability contagion
International precedents demonstrate the power of sustainability contagion through proximity-driven development China's Shenzhen Special Economic Zone transformed the Pearl River Delta through technology transfer and economic spillover effects that elevated environmental standards across neighboring cities through systematic contagion Similarly, Barcelona's Olympic Village development in 1992 catalyzed sustainable urban regeneration throughout the metropolitan area, while Singapore's integrated planning approach created regional influence extending into Malaysia and Indonesia through cross-border sustainability contagion effects. [London 2012 Olympics documents]
Major events in urban development including Olympics, World Cups, and international expositions create concentrated development pressure and international visibility that accelerate transformation Saudi Arabia's giga projects function as extended events, with sustained marketing campaigns and deadline-driven development creating similar acceleration effects across multiple years rather than concentrated periods.
Regional Catalysts: From Megaprojects to Regional Transformation
NEOM's flagship initiatives, including The Line and Oxagon, showcase cutting-edge renewable energy systems, zero-carbon infrastructure, and circular economy models that function as testing grounds for sustainable urbanization technologies These innovations operate as scalable solutions designed to propagate across the northwestern region through systematic sustainability contagion. The contagion effect is evident in Tabuk Province, where local communities experience early exposure to NEOM's advanced technologies, supply chains, and governance frameworks This exposure accelerates broader environmental awareness and capacity-building as regional stakeholders observe and interact with NEOM's sustainability implementations, creating expanding circles of adoption
The Red Sea Project, stretching along the coast between Umluj and Al Wajh, promotes "regenerative tourism" with total reliance on renewables, habitat conservation, and LEED-level architecture. Covering 28,000 km², the project's mandate for 100% renewable energy and sustainable building design creates a comprehensive framework demonstrating integrated environmental management at scale Red Sea Global's rehabilitation of Al Wajh International Airport incorporates renewable-powered terminals and regenerative infrastructure, while airport developers throughout the region now integrate solar power, waste reduction protocols, and carbonneutral design principles into their projects.
PIF's comprehensive portfolio amplifies these individual project impacts through coordinated regional sustainability contagion. Roshn projects are fundamentally transforming residential development by establishing new benchmarks for sustainable community design Through first-hand market observations and developer interviews in Riyadh, private developers increasingly adopt higher sustainability standards to remain competitive with Roshn's integrated approach, demonstrating market-driven contagion effects Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC) positions sustainability as a top priority, creating regional alignment with advanced environmental practices throughout the broader Jeddah development ecosystem through institutional contagion. Saudi Downtown's initiative in Tier 2 cities creates sustainability benchmarks that private competition must match to remain viable, ensuring rapid contagion of advanced environmental standards throughout secondary urban markets This competitive dynamic accelerates transformation as private developers adapt to elevated expectations created by PIF's flagship developments, demonstrating how designed contagion can reshape entire market sectors
Mechanisms of Sustainability Contagion
The sustainability contagion operates through multiple interconnected mechanisms that systematically spread innovations across regional boundaries Supply chain integration creates the most immediate contagion channel, as megaprojects require regional suppliers, contractors, and service providers to meet elevated sustainability standards This naturally spreads environmental requirements throughout the business ecosystem, creating a sustainable supply network that supports continued improvement across multiple projects through network contagion effects.
Workforce development provides another crucial vector for contagion Major projects require extensive training in sustainable technologies and practices, creating regional human capital equipped with advanced environmental expertise This trained workforce becomes a natural channel for sustainability knowledge contagion as professionals move between projects and share expertise across regions. The demonstration effect enables direct observation of sustainability implementations, reducing adoption barriers and uncertainty for regional stakeholders who can observe practical applications, creating behavioral contagion patterns
Economic integration through regional development creates natural channels for sustainability standard elevation Local businesses and institutions must align with megaproject environmental requirements, developing capabilities and familiarity necessary to implement similar approaches in their own operations. This economic alignment generates momentum for cleaner infrastructure adoption as regional ecosystems develop sustainability capabilities
Event-like characteristics of giga projects, with extensive branding and marketing campaigns, create transformation momentum and sustained public attention that drives regional development alignment World Cup 2034 and Expo 2030 add additional deadline pressures and international visibility that motivate comprehensive infrastructure improvement beyond typical development cycles.
Implications and Future Considerations
The integration of sustainability standards across Saudi Arabia's development landscape raises important questions about real estate pricing and socioeconomic accessibility Sustainability features typically command premium pricing, with early market evidence suggesting that developments meeting elevated standards achieve higher property values This premium reflects both construction costs and increased market demand for environmentally conscious options
Sustainability premiums present both opportunities and challenges for inclusive urban development. Higher property values support continued private sector investment while potentially limiting accessibility for moderateincome households The proximity effect may help mitigate these concerns by creating regional ecosystems where sustainability technologies achieve scale economies that reduce costs over time through positive contagion effects As sustainable building practices become standard rather than premium features through widespread adoption, pricing differentials may diminish while environmental benefits remain, demonstrating how successful contagion can ultimately enhance rather than constrain accessibility.
Strategic policy intervention could support environmental advancement while maintaining housing accessibility through sustainability incentives for affordable housing, public-private partnerships subsidizing green building features for moderate-income housing, and regional development strategies ensuring sustainability benefits reach diverse socioeconomic communities.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia's megaprojects successfully leverage proximity effects to engineer sustainability contagion that extends far beyond project boundaries From NEOM's technology incubation in the northwest to The Red Sea Project's regenerative tourism model along the coast, major projects create expanding circles of sustainability influence that accelerate environmental advancement throughout their regions through supply chain integration, workforce development, demonstration effects, and economic alignment.
This designed sustainability contagion operates as a systematic approach to regional innovation spread, creating organic channels for standard adoption that amplify the environmental impact of individual megaprojects The competitive pressure generated by PIF's comprehensive portfolio ensures that sustainability becomes a market differentiator driving industry-wide standard elevation through market contagion mechanisms.
As Saudi Arabia advances toward Vision 2030 objectives, understanding and optimizing contagion effects will be crucial for maximizing the sustainability transformation potential of continued infrastructure investment The Kingdom's experience demonstrates that strategically positioned megaprojects can serve as powerful regional catalysts for comprehensive environmental advancement when designed with explicit contagion objectives, offering valuable insights for leveraging major infrastructure investments to engineer accelerated sustainability transformation through designed contagion effects.
“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”
George Bernard Shaw
Elevating sustainability strategy in Saudi Arabia: from commitments to credible action
Saudi Arabia is undergoing an exciting and profound transformation Through Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has set ambitious goals to diversify its economy and lead on environmental stewardship
Across sectors, we are seeing companies responding to this with enthusiasm and commitment There is a real sense of momentum across the Kingdom with new sustainability projects, pilot initiatives, emissions targets, and stronger engagement with ESG topics
But to meet the scale of ambition, and to match rising expectations from lenders, regulators, and international partners, we believe that to truly succeed, companies must focus increasingly on their corporate strategy This key piece of work sets the direction, ensures consistency, and truly integrates sustainability into the heart of the business, setting the scene and backdrop for the project focussed work that follows.
At sustain:able, we help organisations across the world to define, structure, and implement their sustainability strategy Proudly based here on the ground in KSA, and with global experience, we understand both the local business landscape and the international frameworks Saudi companies are now being measured against, whether through supplier ESG assessments, investor reviews, or regulatory disclosures.
Author: Dr Rachel Gavey Co-founder & Commercial Director, sustain:able, www esgable com, Al Khobar KSA
Email: rachel@esgable com
Phone: +966 56 041 1057 (local KSA number)
WhatsApp: +44 7586 684346
So, what should companies in the Kingdom be doing now to ensure success?
1. Start with an audit: what’s already happening, and where are the gaps?
A successful strategy starts with understanding the current state of the business. Many organisations already have great initiatives in place, and we commonly find companies are surprised to find they are doing more in the ESG space than they realise But without coordination, these activities risk being seen as ad hoc and often get missed We work with clients within a structured sustainability and ESG audit process This includes reviewing emissions data, corporate risk registers, supplier performance, ESG communications, and more Using tools like our Wayfinder process (https://www esgable com/services/wayfinder), we then help consolidate this information into one coherent view and map out areas where the company could do more.
2. Establish the corporate strategy: the basis for all other project work
Sustainability shouldn’t be confined to individual projects A strong corporate-level strategy is essential to:
Set the tone for all project work
Align the organisation on clear ESG priorities
Embed sustainability into operational and investment decisions
Communicate consistently with internal and external stakeholders
This strategic clarity is often what’s missing when companies jump straight into focussing on the critical (and exciting!) projects This is where we see the biggest opportunity for improvement across the Kingdom With the right foundation, projects become part of a broader effort rather than standalone pieces of work Investors and other stakeholders want to see a company that is aligned and that has all of their efforts linked to the corporate focus.
3. Undertake a double materiality assessment
A double materiality assessment helps companies understand what matters most and therefore work in areas that matter to the business and their external partners and the environment
This fundamental piece of work looks at how the world impacts the business (financial materiality) and how the business impacts the world (impact materiality).
All our double materiality assessments are carried out using GRI guidelines – the Global Reporting Initiative, an independent, international organisation that develops and disseminates sustainability reporting standards - as a basis to ensure they are consistent and well recognised by anyone looking at what a company has done This approach is increasingly expected in regulatory and investor circles and is a practical way to identify which ESG issues deserve strategic focus and which may be de-prioritised.
4. Understand your emissions: and build a defendable reduction plan
Emission reduction is a key component of both Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, but emissions reduction targets must be backed by solid data and a clear plan
We work with companies to:
Establish full-scope GHG inventories – understand what their carbon / Greenhouse Gas footprint is today
Identify priority emissions sources and reduction levers across their organisation
Build Emissions Reduction Action Plans (ERAPs) that are costed, timed, and practical
Without this work, emissions claims risk being challenged and impacts on company reputation can be significant, especially as climate litigation and scrutiny of green claims continue to rise globally
5. Be ready for ESG requirements in tenders and supply chains
Across Saudi Arabia and the world, we are seeing a clear shift: sustainability is no longer optional in procurement Companies are now required to demonstrate ESG performance as part of prequalification, tendering, and supplier onboarding processes, particularly for major clients and government-linked entities.
A prime example is the Aramco Supplier ESG Survey, which asks suppliers to disclose detailed information on their emissions, governance practices, environmental performance, social responsibility, and climate targets This is not a box-ticking exercise, it’s designed to assess alignment with Aramco’s sustainability strategy and wider Vision 2030 priorities Other large operators, infrastructure developers, and regulators are following suit, embedding ESG into contracts, reporting expectations, and performance reviews. We are busy helping companies to prepare for these requirements by building the data, documentation, and internal processes needed to respond confidently It’s not only about the requirements you may have today, but about creating a foundation for future compliance, competitiveness, and credibility
6. Communicate clearly and credibly
Stakeholders, including shareholders, regulators, customers, and communities, are looking for straightforward, credible information about what companies are doing on sustainability. It’s no longer enough to say the right things - today’s audience expects evidence:
A strategy that shows where the company is heading
Data to demonstrate impact and performance
Prioritised actions backed by international standards
We are passionate about working with companies to develop clear, uncomplicated sustainability communications that are rooted in evidence and aligned with corporate objectives, making it easier to build trust and respond confidently to investor questions, tender requests, and supplier due diligence Our closing thought: strategy drives impact Saudi Arabia’s direction is ambitious and clear and incredibly exciting – an opportunity to lead in sustainable construction, tourism and growth
But to truly deliver on the promise of Vision 2030 and the Green Initiative, companies must ensure that sustainability is not just project-based but built into the absolute core of their business. With a clear strategy, good data, and credible plans, we believe that companies in here can really lead in showing how sustainability creates long-term resilience, value, and growth At sustain:able, we’re here to support that shift, helping organisations to turn their ambition and that of the Kingdom, into measurable, lasting impact to be proud of
“Climate change is the greatest threat to our existence in our short history on this planet. going to buy their way out of its effects.”
Mark Ruffalo
Sustainable Tourism and Its Role in Preserving Archaeological and Natural Heritage: AlUla as a Model in the Light of Saudi Vision 2030
Introduction
Sustainable tourism is increasingly recognized as a vital strategy for balancing economic growth with cultural and environmental stewardship (World Bank, 2021) Within Saudi Vision 2030, tourism plays a pivotal role in diversifying the economy and fostering social development (Vision 2030, 2023). AlUla, with its unique blend of archaeological wonders and natural landscapes, exemplifies how such tourism can protect heritage, support communities, and contribute to climate resilience (RCU, 2023)
AlUla’s Unique Heritage and Tourism Potential
AlUla is home to Madain Salih (Hegra), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site (UNESCO, 2008) It also features sites like Dadan, Jabal Ikmah, and lush oases framed by desert canyons (RCU, 2023) In 2023, AlUla welcomed nearly 600,000 visitors (Argaam, 2024), with a target of 2 million annual visitors by 2035 (Saudi Tourism Authority, 2023). Tourism has become a catalyst for economic and cultural revitalization.
Success Criteria for Sustainable Tourism in AlUla
1. Heritage Preservation
Author: Arch Homam Idris
Affiliation: Throughhistory org
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) integrates digital mapping and local-material restoration to preserve sites At Dadan and Jabal Ikmah, storytelling and community input enhance conservation efforts (RCU, 2023).
2. Community Engagement
Initiatives like the AlUla Training Program and AlUla Creates platform provide jobs, build local capacity, and support traditional crafts (Saudi Tourism Authority, 2023)
3. Environmental and Wildlife Conservation
Sharaan Nature Reserve (1,500 sq. km) is home to Arabian leopards, gazelles, and native plants (RCU, 2023). Sharaan Resort, designed by Jean Nouvel, blends with the environment to reduce ecological impact. Habitas AlUla uses modular, low-energy designs that minimize resource use (Saudi Tourism Authority, 2023)
4. Climate Change Adaptation
Climate change intensifies desertification, extreme temperatures, and flash floods (World Bank, 2021). AlUla’s strategies include passive cooling in buildings, water-efficient landscaping, and ecosystem monitoring (RCU, 2023).
Economic Impact and Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector generated SAR 255 6 billion in spending in 2023 (Argaam, 2024) The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projects a 2024 contribution of SAR 498 billion to GDP, representing 11 5% of the economy (Aleqt, 2024) AlUla’s focus on cultural heritage aligns directly with Vision 2030’s economic diversification and environmental goals (Vision 2030, 2023).
Challenges: Climate Change and Heritage Fragility
Climate change heightens challenges for sustainable tourism:
- Sandstone erosion threatens ancient structures (RCU, 2023)
- Reduced rainfall stresses oases and biodiversity (World Bank, 2021)
- Higher temperatures require innovative cooling and energy solutions.
AlUla’s adaptive measures like shaded walkways, renewable energy, and reforestation position it as a model for climate-resilient tourism (RCU, 2023)
Environmentally Responsible Facilities
Habitas AlUla minimizes water and energy usage with modular architecture and local materials (Saudi Tourism Authority, 2023). Sharaan Nature Reserve prioritizes habitat restoration and visitor education (RCU, 2023). The Heritage Sustainability Charter ensures conservation remains central to development (RCU, 2023)
Figure 1: Visitor Growth in AlUla (2019–2023)
Conclusion
AlUla demonstrates that sustainable tourism can simultaneously drive economic growth, protect heritage, and strengthen climate adaptation Its model anchored in environmental stewardship and community participation embodies the aspirations of Vision 2030, offering lessons for similar heritage-rich destinations worldwide
References
Aleqt. (2024, June 10). 498 billion riyals expected contribution of Saudi tourism sector to GDP in 2024. Retrieved from https://www aleqt com
Argaam (2024, June) Saudi Arabia: 109 3 million total tourists in 2023 Retrieved from https://www argaam com RCU (2023) Royal Commission for AlUla Retrieved from https://www rcu gov sa Saudi Tourism Authority (2023) Visit Saudi Retrieved from https://www visitsaudi com UNESCO (2008) Madain Salih Retrieved from https://whc unesco org Vision 2030 (2023) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Retrieved from https://vision2030 gov sa World Bank (2021) Sustainable Tourism Development Retrieved from https://www worldbank org/en/topic/tourism
Author Bio
Arch Homam Idris is a Project Director based in AlUla, KSA, with over 16 years of experience in residential, commercial, and infrastructure development He specializes in integrating sustainability principles into complex projects, ensuring environmentally responsible practices alongside economic viability His expertise in budget management, risk analysis, and stakeholder collaboration has contributed to AlUla’s vision for climate-resilient, heritageconscious development Driven by a commitment to continuous improvement and community empowerment, he strives to create sustainable, impactful solutions that align with Saudi Vision 2030.
“Be like the honey bee. Anything it eats is clean, anything it drops is sweet, and the branch it sits upon does not break.” –
Imam Ali (AS)
The Impact of Recycling Glass on Sustainable Construction in Saudi Arabia
1 Introduction
Saudi Arabia faces significant waste management challenges, producing approximately 15 million tons of municipal solid waste annually, with glass accounting for 3-5% (Nizami, 2023). As Saudi Arabia pursues its ambitious Vision 2030 sustainability goals, recycling glass waste for construction applications presents a compelling opportunity to address waste management challenges while supporting sustainable construction practices (KAPSARC, 2022)
This article examines the current state of glass waste management in Saudi Arabia, explores the economic and environmental benefits of recycling glass for construction, and provides recommendations for industry stakeholders and policymakers
1.Current
State of Glass Waste Management in Saudi Arabia
2.1 Waste Generation and Composition
Author: Dr. Ibrahim Almadany
Saudi Arabia generates approximately 15 million tons of municipal solid waste annually, with an average daily rate of 1 4 kg per person This figure is projected to double by 2033, given the current annual population growth rate of 3 4% (Nizami, 2023) Glass typically constitutes 3-5% of the total municipal solid waste stream Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Waste Management estimates that the 2021 solid waste environmental degradation costs R4.87 billion. Nearly half of the waste originates from three cities: 21 per cent in Riyadh, 14 per cent in Jeddah, and 8 per cent in Dammam Most landfills are nearing capacity (ITA, 2024) According to Aldhafeeri and Alhazmi (2022), scenarios incorporating material and energy recovery significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to landfilling
2.2 Current Recycling Practices
Recycling in Saudi Arabia is still in its early stages, with current practices primarily focused on metals and cardboard, covering only 10-15% of the total waste generated Glass recycling, in particular, is not yet widespread, despite its significant potential for reuse in construction applications (Nizami, 2023) The Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC) is working to divert 94 per cent of waste from landfills through partnerships with various stakeholders (Saudi Gazette, 2021) This ambitious target presents significant opportunities for glass recycling initiatives in the construction industry.
3.1 Cost Savings and Revenue Generation
A study on the benefits of waste recycling in Makkah city revealed that recycling glass, metals, aluminium, and cardboard could generate a net annual revenue of R113 million for the national economy alone (Nizami, 2023) The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture plans to recycle up to 95% of the country's waste, potentially contributing R120 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). According to The Economist Intelligence Unit (2021), Saudi Arabia produces 50 million tonnes of recyclable materials annually, representing a significant untapped economic opportunity
3.2 Job Creation and Industry Development
King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre (KAPSARC) (2025) highlights that advancing recycling technologies and infrastructure in the GCC region presents substantial economic opportunities through job creation, reduced waste management costs, and the development of new industries. Transitioning from disposalfocused practices to value-creating recycling systems can contribute significantly to economic growth and diversification
4.Environmental Impact of Glass Recycling in Construction
4.1 Energy Savings and CO Reduction 2
Glass recycling provides substantial environmental benefits, including energy savings and CO reduction In Saudi Arabia, it is estimated that 45 thousand terajoules (TJ) of energy can be saved by recycling only glass and metals from municipal solid waste (Nizami, 2023) Aldhafeeri and Alhazmi (2022) found that implementing waste-toenergy and recycling schemes in Riyadh could reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 55-58% compared to landfilling. This aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 2 KAPSARC's 2024 report on the Circular Carbon Economy emphasises that waste management strategies, including recycling, are crucial in Saudi Arabia's approach to reducing carbon emissions The circular carbon economy framework, based on reducing, reusing, recycling, and removing carbon, provides a holistic approach to addressing climate challenges while supporting economic growth
5.Applications of Recycled Glass in Construction
5.1 Glass as Fine Aggregate in Concrete
Recent research has demonstrated the viability of using recycled glass as a partial replacement for fine aggregates in concrete production A study by Hadi et al (2023) found that replacing 30% of the sand with glass powder resulted in increases in compressive strength of approximately 2.4%, tensile strength of approximately 2.5%, and 26.54% at 7 and 28 days, respectively.
Karalar et al (2025) found that a 10% replacement of waste glass powder (WGP) is optimal for performance in reinforced concrete beams, with higher percentages potentially reducing the beam's capacity Mustafa et al (2022) showed that beams containing 10% WGP demonstrated a 29% increase in cracking load and a 6 9% increase in ultimate load.
5.2 Other Construction Applications
Beyond use as an aggregate in concrete, recycled glass can be utilised in various other construction applications: Glass pozzolan: Finely ground glass can serve as a supplementary cementitious material, partially replacing cement in concrete mixtures
Glass fiber reinforcement: Recycled glass can be processed into fibers for reinforcing concrete and other construction materials.
Glass tiles and pavers: Recycled glass can be transformed into decorative and functional tiles and pavers for buildings and infrastructure.
Insulation materials: Glass can be processed into fiberglass insulation, which contributes to energy efficiency in buildings
6. Challenges and Barriers
Despite the clear benefits, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of glass recycling for construction applications in Saudi Arabia:
1 Limited collection infrastructure: The lack of comprehensive waste collection and sorting systems hinders the efficient gathering of glass waste
2 Absence of quality standards: A standardised specification for recycled glass in construction applications is needed.
3. Market development: The market for recycled glass products in the construction industry is still in its early stages of development, with limited awareness among industry stakeholders.
4 Regulatory framework: Current regulations may not adequately incentivise the use of recycled materials in construction
7. Current Initiatives
7.1 Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC)
The Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is leading efforts to develop the recycling sector in the Kingdom SIRC aims to divert 85% of waste from landfills, supporting the national goal of recycling 95% by 2035 (Mordor Intelligence, 2025) A life cycle assessment study of construction and demolition waste management in Riyadh found that SIRC's planned waste management practices could significantly reduce the environmental impact of construction waste, including glass waste.
7.2 Vision 2030 and Circular Economy
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 encompasses ambitious sustainability targets, focusing on waste management and recycling, which plays a central role The Kingdom aims to divert 90% of its waste from landfills by 2040, targeting a recycling rate of 40%, composting at 31%, and energy conversion from waste at 16% (Mordor Intelligence, 2025).
According to KAPSARC (2025), Saudi Arabia reduced plastic waste by 300,000 tons in five years, representing a decrease of almost 9% This is a positive step toward a more circular economy Similar progress in glass waste management could be achieved with targeted investments and policy support
8. Recommendations
To accelerate the adoption of glass recycling for construction applications in Saudi Arabia, the following recommendations are proposed:
For Industry Stakeholders:
1. Invest in research and development to optimise the use of recycled glass in construction materials, thereby enhancing the construction industry's sustainability.
2. Develop pilot projects that showcase the use of recycled glass in construction to demonstrate its feasibility.
3 Collaborate with waste management companies to secure reliable sources of recycled glass
4 Incorporate recycled glass specifications into project requirements and procurement policies to ensure sustainable practices
For Policymakers:
1. Establish quality standards and certification systems for recycled glass in construction applications to ensure its use in sustainable and environmentally responsible practices
2 Implement incentives for using recycled materials in construction projects
3 Invest in waste collection and sorting infrastructure to increase the availability of recyclable glass
4. Launch awareness campaigns to educate the public about the benefits of glass recycling and its applications in the construction industry.
9. Conclusion
Recycling glass waste for construction applications presents a significant opportunity for Saudi Arabia to address its waste management challenges while promoting sustainable practices With potential economic benefits including cost savings, revenue generation, and job creation, as well as environmental benefits such as energy savings and CO reduction, glass recycling aligns perfectly with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 sustainability goals. 2
Recent research by Karalar et al (2025), Hadi et al (2023), and Mustafa et al (2022) demonstrates the technical feasibility and performance benefits of using recycled glass in construction Meanwhile, policy analyses by KAPSARC highlight the supportive framework being developed for circular economy initiatives in Saudi Arabia By tackling present challenges with joint initiatives involving industry stakeholders, policymakers, and the public, Saudi Arabia can position itself as a regional leader in sustainable construction practices.
Aldhafeeri, Zaid M , and Hatem Alhazmi "Sustainability Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the Framework of Circular Economy Transition " Sustainability, vol 14, no 9, 2022, p 5093
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"Factors Causing Waste in Construction of Mega-Projects " MDPI, 2023
Hadi, Rafal A , et al "Influence of Recycling Waste Glass as Fine Aggregate on the Concrete Properties " Journal of Renewable Materials, vol 11, no 6, 2023, pp 2525–2538
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KAPSARC "Saudi Arabia and the Circular Carbon Economy: From Vision to Implementation " October 2024
KAPSARC "Saudi Arabia cuts plastic waste by 9% in 5 years " LinkedIn, 8 May 2025
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“We don’t have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.”
Howard Zinn
Environmental and Social Net Gains: Building Human Capacity in the Tourism and Hospitality Sector to Enhance Sustainability Success Strategies.
Introduction
The concepts of environmental and social net gains (Bateman 3, Environmental Net Gain, Mauerhofer, Net Gain) has gained traction in recent years, particularly in industries with significant impacts on ecosystems and communities, such as tourism and hospitality (McKercher 7). The European Union and United Nations principles of Environmental Net Gain (ENG) refers to achieving a measurable improvement in the environment, going beyond mitigation to deliver positive outcomes (Mauerhofer) Alongside ENG is the under researched concept of Social Net Gain (SNG) It considers development impacts on communities (Gordon Jones 196). It involves enhancing social conditions and community well-being beyond what already exists at a destination (Aswani 706) This essay explores the strategies for building human capacity to implement, and monitor environmental and social net gains data, to course-correct tourism and hospitality sector policy and regulations that tourism development is based upon. This new approach will provide closer alignment with Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative and demonstrate how Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism is making a substantial contribution in leading the way for international best practice in sustainable tourism development (Sustainability, SGI, STGC, Vison 2030)
Understanding Environmental Net Gain
A society’s wellbeing is closely related to the environment in which individuals exist They are the product of their environment In low quality environments, individuals often suffer from a wellbeing deficit that includes poor health and a lower life expectancy In a good quality environment, health, recreational benefits and wellbeing of individuals is enhanced (Bateman 3). ENG focuses on creating positive and measurable impacts on the environment in the development process (Bateman 3, Environmental Net Gain) This approach includes Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) such as reforestation, habitat restoration, as well as environmental activities such as carbon, pollution and wateruse reduction, grey water reclamation, and the development of renewable energy sources (Biodiversity and Net Gain). This results in net positive effects on the environment. This in turn creates social wellbeing which is vital for economic growth and a sustainable society
Author: James Morgan PhD, MA, BA Hons
Principal Consultant – Tourism and Hospitality
Jadarah Business Consulting
James Morgan is the Principal Consultant for Tourism and Hospitality at Jadarah Business Consulting in Riyadh With a PhD in Tourism Development, he is a recognised thought leader in the global events industry, frequently speaking at international conferences and judging industry awards He is widely regarded as a pioneer in integrating technology and human-centric design into tourism, hospitality and events projects.
Understanding Social Net Gain
SNG, on the other hand, strives to improve the social fabric of communities (Bateman 8, Environmental Net Gain) Bateman et al’s (8) report considers the intersection of differing stakeholders: individuals and groups in a society and their interactions that advantage or disadvantage communities By enhancing access to information, resources and opportunities, improving social capital, facilitating exchange and resource flow between groups and individuals, will result in increased local employment, improved health and education services, and promote cultural heritage (Environmental Net Gain, Gordon-Jones 197). SNG contributes to community pride, thereby improving host-guest relationships (Munasinghe 813). Both concepts - ENG and SNG - aim to ensure that tourism development projects, tourism infrastructure and access modes, attractions and hospitality offerings, leave a positive legacy for future generations (Lehtonen 210)
Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative and the Ministry of Tourism
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 (Vision 2030) is a comprehensive framework to reduce the country's oil dependence, diversify the economy, and enhance public services, that includes sustainable development of the tourism sector The Saudi Green Initiative supports Vision 2030 (SGI) by promoting environmental sustainability to improve quality of life for future generations The Ministry of Tourism emphasizes sustainable tourism development, environmental protection, and empowering local communities through capacity building and job creation Efforts include reducing transport emissions and decreasing natural resource use These actions contribute to promoting a culture of sustainability, with a focus on using digitalisation to achieve many of the aims (Sustainability). National policy is implemented at regional, and local levels. This highlights an opportunity to develop a universal measurement tool for evaluating sustainable tourism development through the addition of ENG and SNG data sets at destination level In terms of international leadership, the ministry demonstrates its sustainable tourism credentials through its policies, as well as hosting a UN Tourism office in Riyadh, co-establishing the Sustainable Tourism Global Center and organising the forthcoming ‘Tourise’ global tourism futures conference taking place in Riyadh in November 2025 (UN Tourism, STGC, Tourise). This paper argues that Saudi Arabia’s sustainability reputation and demonstration of soft power (Nye 154) in the tourism sector can be further enhanced through piloting ENG and SNG initiatives - including capacity building - that could be adopted globally at a later stage through organisations such as the Sustainable Tourism Global
Understanding Social Net Gain
SNG, on the other hand, strives to improve the social fabric of communities (Bateman 8, Environmental Net Gain) Bateman et al’s (8) report considers the intersection of differing stakeholders: individuals and groups in a society and their interactions that advantage or disadvantage communities By enhancing access to information, resources and opportunities, improving social capital, facilitating exchange and resource flow between groups and individuals, will result in increased local employment, improved health and education services, and promote cultural heritage (Environmental Net Gain, Gordon-Jones 197). SNG contributes to community pride, thereby improving host-guest relationships (Munasinghe 813) Both concepts - ENG and SNG - aim to ensure that tourism development projects, tourism infrastructure and access modes, attractions and hospitality offerings, leave a positive legacy for future generations (Lehtonen 210)
Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative and the Ministry of Tourism
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 (Vision 2030) is a comprehensive framework to reduce the country's oil dependence, diversify the economy, and enhance public services, that includes sustainable development of the tourism sector The Saudi Green Initiative supports Vision 2030 (SGI) by promoting environmental sustainability to improve quality of life for future generations The Ministry of Tourism emphasizes sustainable tourism development, environmental protection, and empowering local communities through capacity building and job creation. Efforts include reducing transport emissions and decreasing natural resource use. These actions contribute to promoting a culture of sustainability, with a focus on using digitalisation to achieve many of the aims (Sustainability) National policy is implemented at regional, and local levels This highlights an opportunity to develop a universal measurement tool for evaluating sustainable tourism development through the addition of ENG and SNG data sets at destination level In terms of international leadership, the ministry demonstrates its sustainable tourism credentials through its policies, as well as hosting a UN Tourism office in Riyadh, co-establishing the Sustainable Tourism Global Center and organising the forthcoming ‘Tourise’ global tourism futures conference taking place in Riyadh in November 2025 (UN Tourism, STGC, Tourise). This paper argues that Saudi Arabia’s sustainability reputation and demonstration of soft power (Nye 154) in the tourism sector can be further enhanced through piloting ENG and SNG initiatives - including capacity building - that could be adopted globally at a later stage through organisations such as the Sustainable Tourism Global Center and Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTG, STGC)
Capacity Building for Environmental and Social Net Gains
Measuring ENG and SNG in the Saudi Arabian tourism and hospitality sectors is an area that requires additional data (TIC) This indicates that capacity building in terms of how ENG and SNG measurement needs to be woven into national policy, to inform policymakers at regional and local levels on best development practices Building human capacity involves equipping government institutions, communities and individuals with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to achieve ENG and SNG success. This process can be divided into several key areas: policy and regulatory frameworks, education and training, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring and evaluation (Human Capacity Building, Moscardo 4)
Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
Robust policy and regulatory frameworks are essential for the implementation, monitoring and enforcement for ENG and SNG (Bramwell 402, Environmental Intelligence Suite, Environmental Management) Establishing clear guidelines and standards for ENG and SNG data collection, ensuring that tourism and hospitality projects comply with these requirements is needed (Bramwell 402, Jenkins 89) so that policy at destination level can be course corrected. There is the potential for incentives such as tax breaks, grants, and recognition programs that will encourage businesses to adopt ENG and SNG reporting. Additionally, policies should promote transparency and accountability, enabling stakeholders to monitor and report on their ENG and SNG performance The education and training of staff within the regulating institutions is also necessary to implement the system
Education and Training
To integrate and implement ENG and SNG into public policy in the tourism and hospitality sectors, one of the most critical aspects of capacity building is education and training This involves developing curricula that integrates ENG and SNG knowledge into current tourism and hospitality National Occupation Skills Standards (NOSS) Added to this, education institutions can play a pivotal role by including ENG and SNG into environmental science, and community development courses outside of the tourism and hospitality education sphere. Additionally, on-the-job training and continuous professional development opportunities should be provided to current industry professionals to keep them updated on the ENG and SNG practices and how to integrate them into business operations and sustainability reporting mechanisms that many businesses are now adopting (Human Capacity Building)
Stakeholder Engagement
Effective capacity building requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, including government departments and agencies, private sector entities, local communities, and non-governmental organizations. Collaborative knowledge sharing efforts will ensure that ENG and SNG initiatives are inclusive and consider the perspectives of all parties involved in a meaningful way (Arnstein, 220) Public-private partnerships, community-based tourism models, and multi-stakeholder platforms can facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources This will foster a culture of enhanced sustainability reporting in the tourism and hospitality sectors (Jenkins 42, Jenkins 76).
Monitoring and Evaluation
Regular monitoring and evaluation are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of ENG and SNG initiatives and identifying areas for improvement (McKercher, 14) This involves setting clear targets and indicators for ENG and SNG and developing robust data collection and reporting systems (Environmental Intelligence Suite, Environmental Management). Through a national policy intervention, regulations will cascade reporting requirements down to the regional and destination levels (Jenkins 11). Independent audits and third-party certifications - for example through a collaboration with the Sustainable Tourism Global Center and the National Center for Environmental Compliance (STGC, NCECC) - can provide additional assurance of compliance and performance Continuous feedback loops will help in refining strategies and ensuring that overall sustainability efforts in the Kingdom remain dynamic and responsive to emerging challenges
Conclusion
Building human capacity for the implementation and monitoring of ENG and SNG in Saudi Arabia's tourism and hospitality industry is essential for enhancing the data needed to demonstrate achievement of sustainable development goals Creating a digitised regulatory environment for ENG and SNG reporting can shine a light on how UN Tourism achieves its sustainable development goals Added to this, UN Tourism’s Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) can go beyond the economic impacts of tourism and provide other countries with best practice on achieving sustainable tourism practices. Furthermore, piloting such an initiative will demonstrate the Kingdom’s leadership in sustainable tourism development At the same time opportunities for businesses and communities will reap greater impact in their efforts to promote sustainable tourism and hospitality development in the Kingdom This will pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future This holistic approach ensures that tourism and hospitality growth will contribute to environmental guardianship and societal wellbeing, leaving a sustainable legacy for future generations.
References:
Arnstein, S “A Ladder of Citizen Participation ” Journal of the American Planning Association, vol 35, no 4, 1969, pp 216-224
Aswani, S, et al “Planning for the Future: Mapping Anticipated Environmental and Social Impacts in a Nascent Tourism Destination ” Society and Natural Resources. vol 28, 2015, issue 7, pp 703 – 719
Bateman, I, et al “Building a Better Society: Net environmental gain from housing and infrastructure developments as a driver for improved social wellbeing ” University of Exeter, 2019, https://uk2070 org uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BATEMAN ZONNEVELD Net Env Gain pdf
Bramwell, B, et al “Collaboration in Local Tourism Policy Making ” Annals of Tourism Research, vol 26, no 2, 1999, pp 392-415
Environmental Net Gain Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
https://cieem net/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/CIEEM-Environmental-Net-Gain-Briefing-Apr2021-FINAL-1 pdf Accessed 1 June 2025
Biodiversity and Net Gain Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
https://cieem net/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/C776a-Biodiversity-net-gain -Good-practice-principles-for-development -A-practical-guide-web pdf Accessed 1 June 2025
Net Gain Consultation Proposals Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 2018, https://consult defra gov uk/land-use/netgain/supporting documents/netgainconsultationdocument pdf
Sustainability and climate change: a strategy for the education and children’s services systems Department for Education, 2023, https://www gov uk/government/publications/sustainability-and-climate-change-strategy/sustainability-and-climate-change-a-strategy-for-the-education-and-childrens-servicessystems
Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTG)
Global Sustainable Tourism Council, https://www gstc org/about/ Accessed 2 June 2025
Environmental Intelligence Suite IBM, https://www ibm com/products/environmental-intelligence Accessed 1 June 2025
Jenkins, J, and Dredge, D (2016) Stories of practice: tourism policy and planning 2nd ed , Routledge, 2016
Lehtonen, M “The environmental – social interface of sustainable development: capabilities, social capital, institutions ” Ecological Economics., vol 49, no 2, 2004, pp 199214
McKercher, B “Some Fundamental Truths About Tourism: Understanding Tourism’s Social and Environmental Impacts ” Journal of Sustainable Tourism, vol 1, no 1, 1993, pp 6–16
Mauerhofer, V “Net gain and law for Sustainability: Challenges and Perspectives ” 10 Feb 2022, Mittuniversitetet Lecture
Human Capacity Building Ministry of Tourism, https://mt gov sa/about/ministry-of-tourism Accessed 2 June 2025
Sustainability Ministry of Tourism, https://mt gov sa/about/sustainability-and-environmental-impact Accessed 2 June 2025
Moscardo, G Building Community Capacity for Tourism Development CABI, 2008
National Center for Environmental Compliance Control (NCECC) National Center for Environmental Compliance Control, https://ncec gov sa/ar/Pages/default aspx Accessed 1 June 2025
National Occupation Skills Standards (NOSS) Ministry of Tourism, https://mt gov sa/human-capital/noss Accessed 2 June 2025
Nye, J “Soft Power ” Foreign Policy, no 80, 1990, pp 153-171
Environmental Management SAP, https://www sap com/mena/products/scm/environmental-management-software html Accessed 1 June 2025
Saudi Green Initiative Saudi Green Initiative, https://www sgi gov sa/ Accessed 1 June 2025
Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC) Sustainable Tourism Global Center, https://stgc global/home Accessed 2 June 2025
Tourise Tourise, https://www tourise com/en/home Accessed 1 June 2025
Tourism Intelligence Center (TIC) Ministry of Tourism, https://mt gov sa/tic/what-is-tic Accessed 2 June 2025
Regional Office UN Tourism, https://www unwto org/regional-office-for-the-middle-east Accessed 2 June 2025
Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) UN Tourism, https://unstats un org/unsd/tourism/methodology asp Accessed 2 June 2025
“SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IS A FUNDAMENTAL BREAK THAT’S GOING TO RESHUFFLE THE ENTIRE DECK. THERE ARE COMPANIES TODAY THAT ARE GOING TO DOMINATE IN THE FUTURE SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY UNDERSTAND THAT.”
Francois-Henri Pinault
Sustainability: The Goose, The Golden Eggs, and Our Collective Conscience
We humans are quite clever We've mastered quantum physics, sent probes far beyond our solar system, and even learned to get hot coffee delivered to our door in under 30 minutes Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and synthetic biology - the new frontiers of digital technology, are said to revolutionize the very concept of present-day reality. Yet, despite all this intelligence, we often act like a shortsighted woodcutter, foolishly cutting the branch where he is sitting We admire the majestic tree, enjoy its shade and fruits, yet we cut it branch by branch The grave reality is that it's the only tree we have If it fails, we fall
“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children”
Native American proverb
Sustainability isn't just a term to apply to corporate annual reports, nor is it merely a problem for sophisticated people in lab coats At its core, sustainability is a moral necessity for the whole planet and all its inhabitants. It involves recognizing our deep reliance on this pale blue dot, Earth, which gives us life Neglecting it is not just bad planning; it’s self-sabotage, a perfidious betrayal to every future generation
Author: Engr.Jishnu Vasudevan
Jishnu Vasudevan is a seasoned supply chain professional with over 15 years of experience across diverse industries Passionate about leveraging technology for efficiency and sustainability, he holds an engineering degree and a Master's in Supply Chain Management He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree focusing on sustainable supply chains, aiming to bridge academic knowledge with practical business solutions Jishnu also speaks at sustainability forums, furthering this objective.
The Goose is honking, Are We Listening?
Imagine you have a goose Not just any goose, but one that lays solid gold eggs every day Would you take care of it? Would you try to force it to lay two eggs a day by feeding it questionable substances? Would you pave over its nest to build a garage? Common sense (and maybe a bit of self-interest) says "No!" You would likely ensure it had the best grain, fresh water, and a cozy, quiet environment.
Yet, as a society, we treat our planetary goose with alarming shortsightedness The "golden eggs" aren't just figurative; they represent the invaluable, life-sustaining services Earth provides clean air, fresh water, fertile soil for farming, stable climates for our civilizations, and a rich diversity of life that supports it all These are not resources we can manufacture or replace indefinitely They are what we need to survive They are immensely more valuable than gold.
At the heart of "the right thing to do" lies this understanding Do we have the right to deplete resources and destabilize life support systems that truly belong to future generations? Are we borrowing from them, or are we stealing? Our current path suggests we are swiping off a hefty cosmic credit card bill with no intention of paying it back, leaving our descendants to pay the bill This is an act of tremendous unfairness to future generations, like raiding your grandkids' piggy bank for a new gadget.
Goose for Dinner?
For decades, climate scientists have been warning about the looming climate crisis But, instead of nurturing the bountiful planet or ‘the golden egg laying goose’, we are preparing it for dinner
Consider climate change. Scientists have been giving dire predictions backed by data extrapolated scientifically, showing that our emissions are heating the planet. As per the recent National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (2025) report, the global average temperatures have already risen by approximately 1 1°C (2°F) since the pre-industrial era (1850-1900), with the past decade experiencing the warmest years on record
But we mostly responded with a collective shrug, or at most, some ‘likes’ on social media over our morning coffee - like passengers rearranging deck chairs on a ship headed for an imminent collision with an iceberg. Now, the metaphorical iceberg is not just visible; it’s ramming into us, visible in rising heat waves, severe storms, and the unsettling smell of smoke from wildfires Globally, climate-related extreme weather events have cost the economy over $2 trillion in the last decade alone, impacting billions of people (International Chamber of Commerce 2024) The statistics by WWF (2024) shows that the rate of species extinction is now estimated to be tens to hundreds of times higher than the natural background rate, a crisis on par with past mass extinction events. Are we ready for a future where major coastal cities constantly fight against rising seas, where agricultural areas become dust bowls, and where species go extinct at a rate not seen since the dinosaurs?
For the selfish among us, this isn't just about polar bears (though they are very much part of our vibrant biodiversity) It’s about us The decline of our golden goose means less food, dirtier water, more frequent disasters, and increased social instability Currently, over 2 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, a number exacerbated by climate change impacts. (WHO/UNICEF, 2023). Furthermore, a staggering 1.05 billion Tonnes of food were wasted globally in 2022, even as 783 million people faced hunger. (UNEP 2024).
This results in health crises from pollution, economic chaos from extreme weather, and potential conflicts over dwindling resources The issues we’ve long overlooked are now entering our everyday lives and homes, demanding attention Imagining a world where our goose no longer lays means picturing one plagued by chronic hunger and ongoing strife This is not even a problem for our distant future generations; it is for us and our kids
Learning to Farm Our Golden Goose
So, if killing the goose is clearly the wrong and foolish choice (which it is), how do we change course? It’s not about extreme sacrifices or living in caves Following the extremist path of "Just Stop Oil” or some virulent ideology of travelling the world in yachts and bullock-carts, if not even the suggestion It’s about smart, caring, and ultimately self-serving redesign. The opposite of ‘Consumerism’ need not be ‘anti-consumerism’. It can be minimalism or ethical consumerism. But this requires a fundamental shift in thinking:
Circular living:
We need to move from a "take-make-dispose" economy to a circular, regenerative one where waste becomes food, and resources are valued and reused. A robust circular economy could significantly reduce waste, lower production costs, and create new job opportunities, decoupling economic growth from finite resource consumption (Ellen MacArthur Foundation 2024; European Parliament 2023)
Innovation:
Sustainability isn’t just about reducing harm; it’s about creating benefits This means investing in renewable energy, advancing carbon capture technologies, developing sustainable farming methods, and designing durable products that can be reused. Global renewable electricity capacity has surpassed 30% of total electricity generation, driven significantly by the rapid growth of solar and wind power (Ember Energy 2024) The market for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies is projected to grow from $3 4 billion in 2024 to $9 6 billion by 2029, reflecting increasing investment (GlobeNewswire 2024)
Policy and Governance:
Governments and international agencies must create the right conditions policies, regulations, and incentives so that sustainable choices are the easiest and most profitable This involves fair carbon pricing, clear environmental standards, and solid investments in green infrastructure Despite significant challenges, frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a roadmap, though progress on many targets is severely off track, demanding accelerated action and international cooperation (United Nations 2024)
Individual Action:
While large systemic changes are essential, they rest on the countless daily choices of millions From what we consume to how we travel, our individual actions, though seemingly small, have a wide impact Each mindful choice nourishes the goose
Conclusion: The Feast or the Famine?
The choice we face is clear: Do we continue a path that promises to gradually strangle the source of our wealth and life? Or do we come together to nurture our golden goose, recognizing that its health is tied to ours? It is high time that we realize that global problems need global solutions. But we can’t wait for ‘others’ to fix things for us either, because our neck is very much on the line. The science of sustainability shows us how the goose operates; the economics reveal the cost of neglect; but the real drive for change lies in our shared conscience It’s about understanding that sustainability means preserving the Earth that sustains us, not just because it's convenient or profitable, but because it is profoundly the right thing to do If we fail in this duty, the eggs of prosperity will be rotten Let’s choose the path of lasting abundance, for the sake of the goose, the eggs, and all of us.
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GlobeNewswire 2024 Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Market to Reach $9 6 Billion by 2029, Driven by Increasing Demand for Carbon Reduction Technologies Available at:[ https://www globenewswire com/news-release/2024/05/22/2886740/0/en/Carbon-Capture-Utilization-and-StorageCCUS-Market-to-Reach-9-6-Billion-by-2029-Driven-by-Increasing-Demand-for-Carbon-Reduction-Technologies.html] [Accessed 12 June 2025]
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WWF (World Wildlife Fund) 2024 2024 Living Planet Report Available at:[ https://www worldwildlife org/publications/2024-living-planet-report] [Accessed 11 June 2025]
“We
don’t have time to sit on our hands as our planet burns. For young people, climate change is bigger than election or re-election. It’s life or death.”
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, US Politician & Activist
Challenges to Innovation and Sustainability: Global Barriers and Saudi Arabia's Strategic Response
Innovation is an essential element of sustainability Different challenges prevent innovative ideas, particularly those centered on sustainable practices from being developed, scaled, or sustained in the long term These challenges in a wide range over the world can impact the economy, business operations and entrepreneurs. This article presents discussion of key challenges facing innovation for sustainability, supported by examples globally and from Saudi Arabia's evolving environmental strategies under Vision 2030
As well as discuss corporate governance, which also has a critical role in facilitating sustainable innovation. Well-structured governance frameworks can drive strategic alignment, and long-term value creation Moreover, fostering intergenerational awareness within family businesses is essential to maintain persistence, quality, and flexibility in dynamic markets to face the changes
1. Lack of Funding: Sustainable startups and green technologies often face difficulties in obtaining necessary capital, especially during the early stages Investors may be reluctant to support long-term projects with delayed returns
Example: In water-efficient agriculture, many small farms in arid regions struggle to afford smart irrigation systems despite their longterm benefits in conserving water.
An example of supported Saudi Arabia agriculture sector is hosting the landmark COP16 conference on combating desertification and addressing climate change reflects its strong commitment to environmental challenges. Through strategic initiatives such as restoring water resources, lakes, and rivers using advanced technology The Kingdom not only promotes agricultural innovation and sustainability but also fosters regional and international cooperation, aiming to produce impactful policy recommendations aligned with vision 2030
Author: Dr.Lamia Lasloom Alyami Najran University
Effectively contributing to the advancement of scientific research and academic education in the fields of applied statistics, data analysis, and mathematical modeling, with a focus on practical applications in health, sustainability, and finance. She aspires to enhance research collaboration both locally and internationally through innovative initiatives and offer consultancy services grounded in advanced scientific knowledge Moreover, she’s honored to be the first Saudi woman to earn a Ph D from the Center for Environmental Mathematics Uk
2. Regulatory Complexity Laws: concerning environmental compliance, waste management, and resource use can be complex where Startups need legal expertise always Navigating the complex regulatory landscape of environmental compliance, waste management, and resource use is a constant challenge for startups They consistently need specialized legal expertise to ensure adherence, manage risks, and operate sustainably. Proactive legal guidance is crucial for long-term success and responsible growth.
Example: In Saudi Arabia, while the government promotes recycling and green investment, small businesses may face delays due to licensing or unclear regulatory frameworks but recently in the kingdom there is growing interest in conferences, training, workshops, institutions that discusses these challenges and frameworks and meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards with interest to change and raise awareness.
3. Sustainability products fails: Despite the great effort to produce sustainable products, are often face significant challenges since consumers may resist adopting sustainable alternatives, that can lead to their failure in the market due to cost, trends, or misinformation, making commercial success unpredictable In the energy sector, solar panel installations face pricing pressure from traditional fossil fuel-based electricity in some regions People often prefer conventional energy over solar panels. The Kingdom plays a significant role in this field, actively encouraging its development due to its unique geographical location and diverse topography. A prime example is the Dumat Al-Jandal wind power project, which shows modern implementation methodologies.
4. Risk Management Challenges: Green innovations often involve new technologies and markets, creating heightened risk Entrepreneurs need strategies and data analysis expertise to mitigate financial, operational, and technological risks.
5. Technology Accessibility: Sustainable innovations often rely on cutting-edge or expensive technology, which may be unavailable to small enterprises or startups
Example: Advanced desalination technologies for water reuse are often out of reach for rural or low-income communities
6. Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of infrastructure hinders the implementation of sustainable technologies. Example: In waste management, the absence of sufficient recycling centers or composting facilities can prevent cities from implementing large-scale recycling and this needs more efforts
7 Equally important is the intergenerational transmission of sustainable values within family-owned businesses. Some family firms face decline by the third or fourth generation due to a lack of awareness, vision, or adaptation. To ensure survival and competitiveness, these businesses must develop mechanisms to transfer sustainability knowledge and business purpose across generations. Example: Some successful Saudi family businesses, such as Almarai and Abdul Latif Jameel, have sustained their legacy through structured governance, market adaptability, and long-term sustainability planning
To conclude with Saudi Arabia’s strategic response which highlights how national planning, public-private partnerships, and infrastructure development can support sustainable innovation and achieve measurable environmental and economic benefits with the important project in Saudi Arabia’s that response to sustainability challenges
Heritage buildings hold cultural and historical significance, yet adapting them to modern sustainability standards is essential to ensure their longevity without demolition or new construction By adopting innovative design strategies, these structures can be revitalized to serve contemporary functions while preserving their unique heritage essence.
Repurposing for Sustainable UseTransforming heritage sites such as converting palaces into museums or alleys into commercial spaces not only promotes cultural identity but also enhances tourism appeal Creating pedestrian pathways that connect archaeological sites improves accessibility and visitor experience without compromising the sites’ integrity Although repurposing poses challenges in maintaining original architectural styles, sensitive design interventions can balance functionality with preservation
Enhancing Energy EfficiencyInstalling energy-saving lighting systems, including solar-powered and smart motion-sensor technologies, reduces carbon emissions and energy consumption while respecting the historical fabric Thoughtful lighting design that highlights architectural features with warm tones preserves the building’s traditional aesthetic and prevents intrusive illumination
Revitalizing Traditional Cooling Systems
Windcatchers, an ancient natural ventilation method, are being modernized to improve airflow and indoor comfort in heritage buildings By facilitating pressure-driven air movement and integrating moistureabsorbing materials like silica gel, these systems effectively manage temperature and humidity, especially in coastal or arid regions. Additionally, geothermal cooling techniques leverage stable underground temperatures to cool incoming air, reducing reliance on energy-intensive air conditioning
Author: Mehad Mubarak Al-Ahmadi Sciences in Architectural engineering strong back ground in interior design with a focus on heritage architecture and sustainable local building materials merging modern essence with the legacy of the past. I contribute to elevating the culture of local architecture through emerging real estate projects
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Utilizing natural light and airflow leads to significant long-term energy savings, easing demand on electrical grids during peak seasons This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by conserving resources, promoting renewable energy, and enhancing the value of heritage sites locally and globally
Real-World Success Stories
Projects like the restoration of Diriyah’s At-Turaif district and Jeddah’s Al-Balad exemplify sustainable heritage architecture At-Turaif’s buildings, designed around central courtyards with high thermal insulation using clay, wood, and stone, adapt effectively to the environment Similarly, Al-Balad’s porous stone walls provide natural insulation, while traditional upper windows (Mashrabiyas) enable ventilation and shade These restorations have revitalized cultural tourism and demonstrated how heritage conservation can coexist with sustainability.
A Model for Sustainable Civilization
Rehabilitating heritage buildings reduces demolition waste and leverages traditional construction techniques suited to local climates, lowering energy consumption Beyond preservation, these efforts reintegrate historic structures into vibrant social, economic, and architectural life, embodying a sustainable civilization rooted in authenticity.
As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is championing sustainable heritage as a blueprint for modern architecture, ensuring that restored landmarks meet global environmental standards while celebrating cultural identity This approach not only protects human heritage but also inspires future developments worldwide
In conclusion, integrating sustainable design strategies into heritage building preservation offers a powerful path to honor cultural legacy while meeting contemporary environmental and economic needs. By thoughtfully repurposing historic structures, enhancing energy efficiency, and revitalizing traditional architectural techniques, these buildings become living examples of sustainable innovation Saudi Arabia’s commitment through projects like At-Turaif and Al-Balad highlights how heritage conservation can drive cultural tourism, reduce environmental impact, and inspire future architectural practices Embracing sustainable heritage ensures that the past remains a vital, dynamic part of our shared future bridging tradition and progress in harmony.
“It’s not that the world hasn’t had more carbon dioxide, it’s not that the world hasn’t been warmer. The problem is the speed at which things are changing. We are inducing a sixth mass extinction event kind of by accident and we don’t want to be the ‘extinctee.”
Bill Nye, 'The Science Guy'
The Future of Sustainable Tourism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
Saudi Arabia, a nation long known for it’s oil wealth and spiritual significance, is undergoing a transformative journey to diversify it’s economy and redefine it’s global status Central to this shift is the tourism sector, the Kingdom’s has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable tourism which has emerged as a cornerstone of Vision 2030 strategy. At the heart of this strategy is the commitment to sustainable tourism a model that promotes environmental preservation, cultural protection, and economic inclusivity As the country opens its doors to international visitors and invests in world-class tourism infrastructure, it must balance rapid development with the imperative to safeguard its natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
The objective of this transformation is not only to attract tourists but to do so in a way that ensures long-term sustainability The Kingdom recognizes that sustainable tourism is essential for maintaining the integrity of it’s unique landscapes from the untouched coral reefs of the Red Sea and the vast deserts of the Empty-Quarter to the historical treasures of AlUla and Diriyah. Sustainable tourism serves as a vehicle for economic diversification, helping reduce reliance on oil while creating jobs and green entrepreneurial opportunities across the country This approach also enhances the quality of life for residents by promoting responsible development, community involvement, and cultural enrichment.
The importance of this shift cannot be overstated By embracing sustainable tourism, Saudi Arabia is committing to protecting biodiversity and vulnerable ecosystems, preserving centuries-old traditions, and ensuring that tourism development benefits all layers of society. Unlike mass tourism, which often leads to environmental degradation and cultural erosion, sustainable tourism places emphasis on long-term viability It encourages thoughtful planning, respects carrying capacities, and promotes experiences that are meaningful, educational, and respectful of local customs Moreover, it aligns with global expectations and values around ethical travel, making the Kingdom more attractive to conscious travelers and investors.
Author: Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed
Adam Mohammed is an environmental specialist with five years of experience in sustainable resource management and environmental impact assessment. Currently pursuing a master’s in environmental sciences, Mohammed provides consulting on eco-friendly solutions, including biodegradable fashion products Passionate about climate change and disaster management, Mohammed volunteers in these areas and leverages modern technologies and AI to advance sustainability
The benefits of sustainable tourism for Saudi Arabia are extensive. Economically, it opens up new sectors and reduces the country’s dependency on oil revenues Sustainable Tourism-related ventures such as ecolodges, heritage tours, and locally owned businesses stimulate domestic industries and keep economic benefits within local communities Environmentally, sustainable practices help reduce pollution, conserve biodiversity, and ensure that development does not come at the cost of natural beauty Socially, it empowers communities, especially women and youth, by providing employment and skill development opportunities. Culturally, it fosters a renewed appreciation for Saudi traditions, arts, and history, revitalizing interest in local heritage and promoting national pride
Saudi Arabia’s future in sustainable tourism is supported by a wave of ambitious, large-scale projects The Red Sea Project, for example, aims to create a luxury resort destination powered entirely by renewable energy, with strict environmental regulations to protect marine life. NEOM, as mega-city in the north-west of the country, is designed to be a blue-print for future living, incorporating cutting-edge sustainable infrastructure and technologies Meanwhile, AlUla, home to the ancient Nabatean city of Hegra, is being developed into a global cultural and eco-tourism hub with a strong focus on preserving its archaeological significance and engaging local communities These projects are not only reshaping the country’s tourism landscape but also setting global benchmarks for sustainable development
Behind these flagship initiatives, there are numerous opportunities for expanding sustainable tourism practices across the Kingdom There is vast potential in developing rural and nature-based tourism, promoting domestic travel, and creating eco-tourism circuits that highlight Saudi Arabia’s diverse geography Investments in sustainable transportation such as electric buses, biking trails, and green airports can further reduce tourism’s environmental impact Digital innovations, including smart travel planning apps and AI-driven visitor management systems, can optimize the tourist experience while minimizing strain on local resources. In addition, cultural exchange programs and educational tours can deepen mutual understanding and promote positive narratives about the country
To fully realize the potential of sustainable tourism, several strategic actions are necessary Firstly, the government should continue implementing and enforcing comprehensive environmental and cultural protection policies. Regulatory frameworks must require tourism projects to undergo environmental impact assessments and adhere to international sustainability standards. Secondly, there is a need for widespread education and training programs that equip tourism workers and local communities with the knowledge and tools to support sustainable practices This includes fostering language skills, hospitality training, and awareness of ecological conservation Thirdly, public-private partnerships should be encouraged to pool investment and expertise, particularly in developing green infrastructure and services Fourthly, public awareness campaigns should target both residents and tourists, promoting responsible travel behavior, respect for cultural norms, and environmental stewardship. Finally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms must be established to measure the social, environmental, and economic impacts of tourism and guide continuous improvement
In conclusion, the future of sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia is promising and holds transformative potential for the country’s economy, environment, and society. By aligning tourism growth with principles of sustainability, the Kingdom can create a resilient and inclusive industry that celebrates its rich heritage and diverse natural landscapes The journey toward sustainable tourism will require collaboration, innovation, and commitment at all levels, but the rewards a thriving economy, preserved environment, and enriched cultural identity are well worth the effort As the world increasingly values responsible travel, the kingdom’s largest trade event for the hotel and hospitality industry, is positioned to become a model for sustainable tourism in the Middle East and World Wide.
"Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without"
The ESG Data Challenge in Saudi Arabia: Bridging Gaps with Digital Solutions
Saudi Arabia is putting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues at the center of its economic transformation Driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 agenda and growing investor demand for sustainable business practices, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a regional ESG front-runner. Despite the growing conversation surrounding ESG, a major challenge is turning these practices into consistent and reliable data for reporting
Here, we look into the current state of ESG reporting in Saudi Arabia and explore how digital solutions are closing the gap between strategy and execution, helping Saudi businesses to participate more effectively in the global arena of ESG data and disclosure. We’re aiming to answer the question: can today’s technologies truly accelerate the shift from ambition to accountability?
Saudi’s ESG Reporting Landscape
Saudi Arabia is putting sustainability at the centre of its long-term transformation strategy. Vision 2030 made this clear, linking national goals, like cutting emissions and scaling clean energy, to how companies grow and report This message is reaching boardrooms yes, ESG matters
Awareness among corporate leaders is rising as more companies release their ESG reports, new positions like Chief Sustainability Officers are emerging But progress is uneven While some businesses are adapting, many local and family-owned firms still see ESG as a formality and external requirement rather than being strategic and valuable Reports often lack consistent metrics, external assurance, or data that investors can rely on. There's also a disconnect companies say there’s little investor pressure to disclose, while investors say they would act if the data were more reliable Still, the momentum for reporting is undeniable
Author: Monica Dimapilis
Monica Dimapilis is a sustainability expert specializing in ESG strategy and reporting With a Management Economics degree and focus in Sustainability, she combines analytical rigor with creative communication to drive impactful solutions. As an ESG Domain and Product Specialist for Convene ESG, she helps develop tools to advance sustainable practices
The Saudi Arabia Stock Exchange, Tadawul, took the first step in 2021 by releasing voluntary ESG Disclosure Guidelines Companies are given a starting point in reporting key ESG topics aligned with global best practices, setting the tone for greater transparency and investor-aligned disclosures
In 2023, 81 of the listed companies released their sustainability disclosures (2024: 94). These companies primarily use established frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Task Force on Climaterelated Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Interestingly, there’s also a growing interest in industry-specific metrics, especially in the oil and gas sector, where the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) adoption is projected to reach 55% in 2025 These standards offer clear guidance on what and how to report, which not only meets the reliability and quality data for investor demands but also shows a commitment from companies to industry-level or sector-specific details.
Beyond impact and regulation, one of the strongest drivers of ESG adoption is economic opportunity. In 2024, ESG-compliant companies in the Kingdom reportedly experienced a 20% increase in foreign direct investment highlighting the growing link between transparency, investor confidence, and capital access
Looking ahead, regulators have announced that ESG reporting will become mandatory for large companies, using primarily the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework. The goal is to raise the overall quality and consistency of reporting across the market. But applying these standards still poses challenges Most companies need training and clearer direction while widespread adoption is still evolving Ministries and industry bodies are now working to build local guidance that fits the Saudi market while aligning with global norms
The Challenge: Quality, Systems, and Capacity
While more Saudi companies are disclosing ESG information, the quality and reliability of these disclosures remain underdeveloped
Inconsistent and Narrative-Heavy Reports
Many ESG disclosures are still dominated by narratives with limited, non-standardised metrics. Reports often mix broad sustainability goals with a handful of quantitative figures. Without standardised benchmarks or external evaluation, data credibility is limited and data comparison across companies complicated.
Fragmented Data Systems
A major roadblock is the lack of integrated ESG data systems Most companies still rely on manual data collection, without ESG-specific software or centralised databases. Key metrics, like energy use, waste, or labour conditions, are often tracked in fragmented spreadsheets or across departments.
Limited ESG Data Availability
Companies still struggle to collect reliable ESG data Since ESG information has not been systematically tracked, data gaps become common Many firms are still building capacity to manage data coordination across multiple departments and partners, resulting in ESG reports that are incomplete and only based on rough estimates.
Limited ESG Expertise and Governance
A skills gap persists across the market Many companies treat ESG reporting as a side task, with few in-house experts and minimal board oversight This often leads to unclear reporting responsibilities and inconsistent application of global frameworks
Until these gaps in systems, standards, and expertise are addressed, Saudi ESG disclosures will continue to face questions around comparability, reliability, and decision-usefulness.
Bridging the Gaps with ESG Software
To address challenges in data collection and disclosure, organisations are increasingly adopting digital ESG solutions, including AI-powered platforms that automate and streamline data collection, validation, and reporting. These tools help simplify the process, improve data quality, and support compliance with global standards.
ESG Data Aggregation & Analytics Platforms
ESG platforms serve as centralised hubs for ESG data across organisations It integrated inputs from various departments, regions, and systems. By enabling decentralised data entry, it encourages cross-functional participation in ESG reporting.
Key features often include:
AI-powered data validation that flags anomalies, such as sudden drops in emissions, and checks data against benchmarks
Standardised data formatting for consistent reporting across years and business units. For instance, an ESG platform might continuously pull data from utility meters or HR software to build a dynamic, real-time ESG dashboard. This reduces human error and frees up sustainability teams to focus on insights and strategy In the region, companies that have embraced these technologies report improved data accuracy and faster reporting cycles
ESG Reporting & Disclosure Tools
These tools help companies navigate the complex landscape of reporting standards, which is the so-called alphabet soup of ESG, which includes GRI, SASB, ISSB, etc. Their primary function is to align data inputs with disclosure requirements and stakeholder expectations
Many of these platforms provide:
Automated mapping across different standards
Built-in ESG knowledge modules that guide users in collecting and formatting data correctly
Regular updates to reflect the latest regulatory and voluntary framework changes For Saudi companies aiming to meet global expectations, this functionality is particularly valuable
Carbon Accounting & Climate Risk Tools
Of all the ESG data, Scope 3 emissions those outside an organisation’s direct control are often the most difficult to collect and calculate These tools help organisations measure, manage, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, using the GHG Protocol as a foundation while allowing customisation for industry-specific activities.
Unlike mature disciplines such as financial accounting, carbon accounting is still evolving These platforms combine built-in emissions calculation logic with flexibility to adapt to a company’s operations and supply chain Advanced tools also support climate scenario modelling and decarbonization initiatives
Supply Chain & Supplier ESG Management
Larger companies are using dedicated tools to extend ESG data collection to suppliers, creating a ripple effect across their value chains These tools facilitate:
ESG assessments and surveys for suppliers
Tracking of key sustainability metrics
Engagement initiatives to drive improvements in supplier operations
Besides improving transparency, this positions companies as influencers, helping suppliers adopt more sustainable practices and potentially uncover operational efficiencies.
At the core of these solutions is automation, replacing manual data entry and interdepartmental chases with systems that continuously pull data from various sources Automation is especially powerful for scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions: AI tools can process fuel consumption, electricity bills, or supplier invoices and apply relevant emissions factors, generating accurate carbon footprints with minimal manual work.
AI-Powered ESG in Action: Saudi & GCC Examples
The adoption of AI in ESG is already reshaping industries in the GCC: Banks in Saudi Arabia are using AI to assess ESG performance by analysing transactions and vendor data to estimate emissions and social impacts. One platform helps calculate carbon footprints by analysing operational and supply chain information, streamlining climate risk assessments aligned with TCFD.
In the industrial sector, some firms, like Aramco, use IoT sensors with AI to track real-time environmental metrics, feeding data directly into ESG dashboards
In ESG investing, Saudi asset managers are utilising AI-powered indexing of ESG data to guide responsible investments
AI thrives on complexity and big data, and this is exactly what ESG management entails. From parsing satellite imagery for environmental monitoring to using machine learning to prioritise impactful initiatives, AI is transforming sustainability from reactive compliance to proactive value creation.
Conclusion
Adopting ESG software or AI-powered tools is not a simple solution It requires upfront investment, organisational buy-in, and continuous data governance. Technology alone won’t solve ESG challenges. However, it’s quickly becoming the backbone of credible, consistent, and forward-looking reporting and initiatives. The shift from ambition to accountability is beyond possible and already underway because of AIpowered platforms, increasing support in Saudi Arabia, and the initiatives outlined in Vision 2030 With ESG already in motion and the tools in place, what comes next is putting all these to work
“One thing leads to the other. Deforestation leads to climate change, which leads to ecosystem losses, which negatively impacts our livelihoods – it’s a vicious cycle.”
Gisele Bundchen
Sustainable Printing: Waterless, Sustainable Method, Enhancing Sustainability in Natural Printing Practices via Imprint Technology on Cotton Fabric with Flower and Leaf
INTRODUCTION
Flower and leaf impression printing, also known as floral impressionism or pounding, is an innovative technique that uses the natural shapes and colors of flowers to create unique prints on fabric This eco-friendly method involves pressing fresh flowers or leaves into cloth, either by hand or using a hammer for the printing press, to transfer their intricate patterns and vibrant hues. As the textile industry faces scrutiny for its significant environmental impact, adopting sustainable practices like flower & leaf impression printing can revolutionize fabric printing and reduce pollution
Environmental Impact on the Textile Industry
The Textile Industry’s impact on the environment is one of the worst polluters in the world; the textile sector causes serious water pollution and soil contamination through the discharge of synthetic dye waste and the accumulation of synthetic fabric in landfills These pollutants threaten aquatic ecosystems and human health To combat these issues, there is a pressing need for sustainable manufacturing practices that prioritize environmental health.
Eco-Printing: An Overview
Eco-printing is a method that uses various parts of plants to create prints on fabric This technique extracts pigments directly from the plant materials, allowing for unique and organic designs. The two most practiced methods of eco-printing are:
1 Bind and Steam Technique: In this method, different plant parts are arranged and bound between layers of fabric The layers are then steamed to transfer the pigments onto the fabric, resulting in distinct and vibrant prints.
2.Hammering or Pounding Technique: This technique involves beating the plant material with a soft hammer directly onto the fabric After the pigments are released, the fabric is wrapped and steamed to set the prints, creating rich and intricate designs
Author: Monika Choudhary
Assistant Dean & Associate Professor, Sharda School of Design, Sharda University, Agra, INDIA
Flower impression printing utilizes non-toxic, biodegradable materials Most flowers are safe for human consumption and are often used in food and medicinal products, making them an ideal choice for sustainable dyeing
Sustainable Fabrics:
This printing technique can be applied to natural, sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, or hemp, which are biodegradable and have a lower environmental footprint compared to synthetic textiles
Minimal Waste:
By using fresh flowers, the process generates minimal waste, and any leftover plant materials can be composted, further supporting ecological balance
Unique Aesthetic:
Each print is unique, capturing the intricate details of the flowers used, which adds a personalized touch to textile products This individuality appeals to consumers looking for distinctive, artisanal items
Promoting Awareness:
By showcasing the beauty of flowers and the potential for eco-friendly printing, this technique can raise awareness about sustainable practices and encourage more environmentally conscious consumer choices.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
1. Fabric
In this study, Cotton Scoured & Bleached fabrics were utilized:
Domestic cotton with a thread count of 144 The thickness of the fabrics was measured using a Paramount thickness tester to ensure consistency in the material used for eco-printing.
2. Plant Material
This study was about the printing substance for Hong Kong, also known as Bauhinia X Blakeana orchid trees In this study, three varieties of this flower were used, one of which was light pink and another with purple and white flowers It’s a hybrid leguminous tree of the Genus Bauhinia
Bougainvillea Glabrais a sharp, evergreen plant that climbs vigorously two colours are 8 available in dark pink, purple, and orange Flowers and leaves are used to develop the prints, and flowers of purple and pink are used mainly for the print.
Rosa x Damascena, also called the Damask rose, is a hybrid rose that descended from Rosa gallica and Rosa moschata It is occasionally referred to as the Bulgarian rose, Turkish rose, Taif rose, Arab rose, Ispahan rose, and Castile rose Flower petals and Green leaves are used to develop prints Sesbania grandiflora a known Sesbania grandiflora, is the scientific name for agathi keerai in Tamil, whereas August tree leaves or hummingbird tree leaves are the English names for the spinach type. Agathi leaves come in two types. One type has white flowers, while another, known as red August tree leaves, has red flowers Flowers in red and leaves are used in printing to obtain the print
Tagetes patula, the French marigold, or Tagetes patula, is a daisyfamily flowering plant that is indigenous to Mexico and Guatemala and has established naturalised populations in numerous other nations It is commonly grown as an With thousands of varieties in vibrant orange and yellow hues, this bedding plant is simple to grow. Marigold is utilised as a trap crop in the borders to draw insects that are attacking the main crop
Alternanthera is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Amaranthaceae family is Alternanthera The majority of the species of this widely distributed genus are found in the tropical Americas. However, some can be found in Asia, Africa, and Australia. The genus' plants are commonly referred to as Joseph's coat or joyweeds
This study aims to repurpose these discarded flowers and leaves for textile printing, highlighting their potential as a sustainable resource.
Mordant
Both the pre-mordanting and post-mordanting procedures used Aluminium potassium sulphate, also known as alum, as a mordant. Alum is a sensible option for eco-printing because it is widely available, reasonably priced, and abundant It is also regarded as a safe mordant Because of their strong affinity for cellulosic (cotton) fibres, the aluminium ions found in alum serve as a bridge between the dye molecules and the fibres, improving colour retention and print quality overall Another Mordant used is Copper Sulphate It is used in natural dyeing to enhance the color of dyes and improve their light and wash fastness Copper sulfate can bring out blue and green hues in natural dyes and intensify yellow dyes. It can also darken dye colors, similar to tin, but is less harsh.
Methodology Overview
1 Fabric Preparation Before Printing 100% cambric cotton was scoured and bleached to remove impurities and prepare it for dye absorption The fabric was then treated with natural mordant: Aluminium Potassium Sulphate
Mordanting Process:
1 Pre-Mordanting: The fabrics were treated with a solution of Aluminium Potassium Sulphate before dyeing, allowing the mordant to bond with the fibers The scoured and bleached fabric was soaked in a 5% solution of mordant (based on the weight of the fabric) in hot water for 3-4 hours
2 After soaking, the fabric was removed from the solution, rinsed in cold water, and dried in the shade Samples measuring 12 cm x 6 cm were cut from the mordanted fabrics and set aside for printing.
3.To use copper sulfate as a mordant, weigh copper sulfate as per the weight of the fabric/sample. Dissolve copper sulphate in hot water Top off with cold water to cover the fabric Let the fabric sit in the mixture overnight, stirring in between Alternatively, heat the solution for 1–2 hours to below a simmer
4 Post-Mordanting: After the printing process, the fabrics were immersed in the mordant solution to enhance color adherence (For both Copper Sulphate and Aluminium Potassium Sulphate)
3. Eco-Printing Procedure:
Fresh flowers and leaves were arranged on the prepared fabric Depending on the technique employed, either the bind and steam or hammering method was used to transfer the pigments from the leaves onto the fabric
The printed fabrics were then steamed to set the colors and enhance the print clarity.
Requirements for Printing
Pre-mordanted fabric samples
Freshly picked flowers and leaves (ensuring none are toxic)
Hammer (iron or wooden)
Plastic transparency sheet (A5 size)
Masking tape (1 inch)
Scissors
Printing table with felt bedding
Rough cloth
Method of Printing
Printing can be performed using two main techniques:
1.Direct Printing
2 Fabric Fold Printing
Procedure:
Lay the pre-mordanted and post-mordanted fabric on the printing table Arrange the flowers and leaves according to the chosen printing method to create a desired design.
For Direct Printing:
Place the flowers and leaves in a pattern on the fabric
Secure them in place using masking tape to prevent movement during the printing process, ensuring the fabric absorbs the plant pigments effectively This method results in a print on only one side of the fabric
For Fabric Fold Printing:
Arrange the flowers and leaves on one half of the fabric, leaving the other half empty
Fold the empty half over the designed half to cover it
Place a transparency sheet over the fabric and secure it with masking tape to prevent movement This method allows for prints on both sides of the fabric, creating a mirror image effect
1.Hammering: Gently hammer the arranged plant material to release the pigments. Use a light hand to avoid damaging the flowers and leaves but ensure thorough contact to achieve desired results.
2 Resting Period: Allow the printed fabric to rest for at least 1 hour, enabling the flowers and leaves to release their pigments onto the fabric
3 Final Steps: Carefully remove the masking tape from the direct print samples after the resting period and allow the samples to dry completely
For color fixation, various trials will be conducted following the printing process.
In this study the colour fastness has been evaluated for the prints derived from flowers and leaves on cotton bleached fabric using different pre- and post-mordanting techniques. specifically, Rosa x damascena, Bauhinia x blakeana, Alternanthera, Tagetes Patula and Solanum tuberosum were found overall with very good results as compared to others(Bougainvillea glabra and Asparagus) The findings indicate that the cotton bleached fabric mordanted with the Alluminuim Potassium Sulphate & Copper Sulphate exhibited strong colorfastness across various tests, achieving scores of 4-5 on the gray scale for dry cleaning, washing, perspiration, and crocking However, the fabric showed average colorfastness to sunlight, with a score of 3 (Note- There is colour change from Brown to Olive green(Alternanthera leaves) when post Mordanting with Copper Sulphate is done.)
CONCLUSION
Eco-printing on textiles highlights its accessibility and affordability, making it an attractive method for home crafters. It is noted that while there are various plants, mordants, and fabrics available for eco-printing, the challenge lies in the colorfastness of prints developed, with a lack of documented data on this property. Applying both pre- and post-mordanting with alum seems to effectively enhance colorfastness, suggesting a way to standardize the process Even Application of Pre- and Post- Mordanting with Copper sulphate seems to enhance the colour fastness but also leads to colour change of the print developed due to its natural colour green, so it is suggested that the copper sulphate when used as mordant should be used carefully with the light pigmented flowers as it will darken or change the tint of the original colour. This conclusion positions ecoprinting as not only a sustainable option for textile decoration but also a viable one that can yield more durable results when proper techniques are used
REFERENCES
1 Tajuddin, F N (2018) Cultural and Social Identity in Clothing Matters “Different Cultures, Different Meanings ” European Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 1(4), Article 4
2 Kasikovic, N , Vladić, G , & Novaković, D (2016) TEXTILE PRINTING – PAST, PRESENT,FUTURE Glasnik Hemiĉara, Tehnologa i Ekologa Republike Srpske, 2016, 35–46
3 Haar, S , Schrader, E , & Gatewood, B M (2013) Comparison of Aluminum Mordants on the Colorfastness of Natural Dyes on Cotton Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 31(2), 97–108
4 ISO - ISO 105-D01:2010 Textiles Tests for colour fastness Part D01: Colour fastness to drycleaning using perchloroethylene solvent Retrieved December 11, 2022
5 ISO 105-C06:2010 – Textiles – Tests for colour fastness – Part C06: Colour fastness to domestic and commercial laundering Retrieved December 11, 2022
6 ISO 105-E04 (2013) Textiles - Tests for colour fastness - Part E04: Colour fastness to perspiration Retrieved December 11, 2022
7 ISO 105-B01:1994(en), Textiles Tests for colour fastness Part B01: Colour fastness to light: Daylight Retrieved December 11, 2022
8 AATCC 8-2016 Edition, 2022 - Test Method for Colorfastness to Crocking: Crockmeter Method Retrieved December 11, 2022 Top of Form
“Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need, but not every man's greed.”
Mahatma Gandhi
Future-Proofing Saudi Arabia’s Sustainability Journey with Strategic Foresight
Saudi Arabia is not just turning a page; it is writing a bold new chapter in sustainability Having spent formative years in the Netherlands, where risk management and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disciplines are deeply woven into the current business culture, I am struck by how Saudi Arabia is blending international best practices with its own appetite for calculated transformation. Yet, as promising as the Kingdom’s progress is, one crucial ingredient that is Strategic Foresight still needs greater awareness and practical embedding to fully realize its benefits By embedding foresight into its Sustainability initiatives, Saudi Arabia stands to develop the agility and learning capacity that define today’s most resilient and innovative economies. In a world where plans quickly age, strategic foresight can become the Kingdom’s key to a sustainable, future-ready society
Industries and Innovation: Saudi Arabia’s Sustainability Transformation
Sustainability is central to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Giga projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project showcase sustainable urbanism, regenerative tourism, and cultural preservation demonstrating that economic growth can align with environmental goals The Saudi Green Initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees, expand protected areas, and cut emissions, linking climate action to job creation and economic diversification.
The Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC) and the TOURISE platform are advancing global best practices in sustainable travel Meanwhile, progress in renewables, water management, and the circular economy reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to lead with both infrastructure and imagination.
Unlocking the Benefits of Strategic Foresight for Sustainability
While Saudi Arabia’s sustainability drive is impressive, integration of strategic foresight remains uneven Although many organizations have engaged in some forms of scenario planning and explored futureoriented strategies, several barriers hinder proper adoption. These include limited familiarity with futures thinking, persistent organizational silos, and weak alignment between foresight activities and core business strategy
Author:
Muhammad Waqas Hamid
Muhammad Waqas Hamid, PMP, is a Senior Manager at Strategic Gears and a sustainability and strategic foresight expert with extensive experience across Europe and the Middle East He currently supports Saudi organizations in designing future-ready strategies and sustainability frameworks powered by strategic foresight.
The World Economic Forum highlights that foresight-driven organizations are more agile, better at stress-testing strategies, and more likely to convert early signals into competitive advantage while staying prepared for novel situations. By combining external trend scanning with internal scenario planning, leading organizations ensure both breadth and contextual relevance When embedded effectively, strategic foresight goes beyond risk mitigation - it builds dynamic capabilities, enhances resilience, and fosters innovation by enabling businesses to anticipate disruptions, uncover new growth opportunities, and align long-term sustainability goals with core strategies
Across the globe, several forward-thinking organizations have embedded strategic foresight into their sustainability initiatives, delivering measurable impact:
Shell has long been a pioneer in using scenario planning and strategic foresight to explore future energy landscapes Its sustainability-focused scenarios, such as Sky 2050 models global net-zero pathways, guiding investments in renewables, carbon capture, and hydrogen. Shell’s foresight shapes both internal decisions and broader climate conversations.
The Government of Finland institutionalizes strategic foresight by requiring each new government to submit a long-term future outlook, often focused on environmental and social challenges such as biodiversity loss, renewable energy transition, and sustainable welfare systems
Singapore’s Centre for Strategic Futures (CSF) integrates strategic foresight into national planning by identifying long-term risks to sustainability, and climate adaptation. Its work has informed Singapore’s carbon tax, investment in urban farming, and infrastructure resilience planning.
Unilever uses foresight to future-proof its sustainability strategy By anticipating shifts in consumer expectations, resource constraints, and climate risks, the company has advanced its goals for net-zero emissions, regenerative agriculture, and plastic reduction Strategic Foresight has guided its moves into plant-based foods, refillable packaging, and regenerative agriculture
BMW Group incorporates strategic foresight into its “Circular Economy” roadmap, exploring future regulations, material scarcity, and evolving consumer expectations. Their long-term vision includes closedloop manufacturing, green mobility, and climate-neutral supply chains developed through strategic foresight IKEA, through its SPACE10 innovation lab, explores sustainability futures using design fiction and prototype testing Projects like urban farming modules, Initiatives like circular furniture and solar-powered hubs emerge from foresight-led experimentation
These examples demonstrate that strategic foresight - when applied with rigor and vision can be a catalyst for environmental leadership, long-term competitiveness, and inclusive growth
The Foresight Process: From Perceiving to Transforming
A systematic foresight approach, adapted from Schwarz and contextualized for Saudi Arabia’s sustainability transformation, involves four continuous phases:
Perceiving: Deploy strategic radar, horizon scanning, and ESG trend monitoring to detect weak signals such as shifts in climate policy, emerging food security challenges, new approaches to waste management, or evolving energy frameworks relevant to Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative
Prospecting: Use scenario planning and participatory sensemaking to explore plausible futures assessing tipping points for tourism, urban sustainability, climate resilience, and circular economy initiatives.
Probing: Launch pilot programs in renewable energy, water reuse, sustainable tourism, or low-carbon infrastructure to test strategies and measure feasibility, scalability, and impact in real-world conditions
Transforming: Institutionalize foresight outcomes by reconfiguring organizational models, skills, and partnerships to embed sustainability into core business practices ensuring long-term resilience, innovation, and alignment with national ESG targets.
This structured process is not just theoretical; it produces tangible outputs that support decision-making and strategic alignment As depicted below, scenarios and insights generated through these phases are used to:
This enables organizations to anticipate emerging trends and risks while systematically testing and implementing innovative sustainability strategies ensuring resilience, competitiveness, and alignment with long-term environmental and economic goals
Streamlined Call to Action in KSA
To accelerate the adoption of strategic foresight as a driver of sustainability, Saudi organizations can draw on best practices, adapting proven methods to the Kingdom’s context:
Develop targeted futures literacy programs:
Drawing inspiration from the global Strategic Foresight work, Saudi organizations should train their organizations to identify weak signals such as emerging water scarcity risks etc. and integrate scenario planning into the design of renewable energy, tourism, and circular economy projects
Institutionalize cross-sector foresight forums:
Following the EU’s participatory foresight for sustainable transitions and the Netherlands’ collaborative approach to food and energy transformation, convene regular workshops that bring together leaders from tourism, energy, agriculture, and urban development. These forums should stress-test national sustainability strategies against multiple future scenarios, ensuring alignment with Vision 2030 and netzero pathways
Embed foresight metrics into sustainability dashboards:
Saudi organizations should connect scenario analysis directly to measurable KPIs such as water savings, carbon intensity reduction, biodiversity restoration, or sustainable visitor capacity ensuring future thinking translates into operational results.
Institutionalize board-level foresight reviews:
As championed by Shell’s executive leadership, make strategic foresight a standing agenda item for boards and executive committees Regularly evaluate long-term scenarios, monitor progress on adaptive strategies, and ensure major investments are resilient to environmental, technological, and regulatory shifts.
Benchmark against global best practices:
Adopt tools like horizon scanning, business wargaming, and participatory visioning to align future strategies with national priorities By embedding foresight into the strategic planning, the initiatives remain globally relevant, future-ready, and continuously aligned with emerging trends and evolving stakeholder expectations
Conclusion
My experience in the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia so far has taught me the value of methodical planning, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory discipline What I see in Saudi Arabia is the power of ambition, agility, and a willingness to learn by doing The most successful Saudi organizations are blending these strengths, adapting global best practices to local realities and moving quickly from vision to action.
Saudi Arabia’s sustainability journey is impressive, but the next leap forward will come from making strategic foresight a living part of every initiative The tools are in place; the challenge is to turn vision into everyday practice across boardrooms, business units, and communities alike I am convinced that Saudi Arabia has the ambition and resources not only to catch up but to lead In a world where static plans quickly fade, embedding foresight into decision-making could become the Kingdom’s most valuable asset in building a sustainable, future-ready society. The future, as the Saudi experience shows, is not something to fear or merely predict it is something to shape together.
References
European Commission (2023) 2023 Strategic Foresight Report: Sustainability and resilience in a changing world https://commission europa eu/strategy-and-policy/strategic-planning/strategic-foresight/2023-strategic-foresight-report en Ministry of Environment Water and Agriculture (2024) Water conservation initiatives in Saudi Arabia https://www mewa gov sa/en/waterconservation
Saudi Aramco (2023) Sustainability report https://www saudiaramco com/en/sustainability/report
Saudi Green Initiative (2021) https://www saudigreeninitiative org
Saudi Vision 2030 (2016) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia https://vision2030 gov sa/en Schwarz, J O (2020) Strategic foresight: Concepts and applications Futures Journal
Sustainable Tourism Global Center (2022) https://stgc global Virtus InterPress (n d ) Strategic foresight for companies (Shell case study) https://virtusinterpress org/Strategic-foresight-for-companies html World Economic Forum (n d ) Strategic foresight https://www weforum org/agenda/archive/strategic-foresight/
THE JOURNEY FROM 3Rs to 8Rs From Simple to SMART Compressing Waste, Expanding Impact
Why the 8Rs Are the New Green Standard
Plastic waste is a persistent global challenge From sun-baked deserts to deep ocean depths, plastic does not decompose; it lingers, contaminating soil, polluting water, and adding logistical burdens to waste management. Embracing the 8Rs framework transforms even the most remote sites into environmentally conscious operations cleaner, leaner, and more respected
A Historical Perspective on Waste Management
Waste management strategies have evolved significantly over the decades. The foundational 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—emerged in the late 20th century amid rising environmental awareness Inspired by milestones like Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring and the first Earth Day in 1970, these principles became central to tackling pollution and waste
Reduce encourages minimizing consumption and questioning the necessity of purchases.
Reuse promotes extending the life of products by finding new uses
Recycle involves converting waste into new materials, gaining momentum through 1980s recycling programs and legislation
Author: Nasir Syed Luqman
Environmental & Occupational Health Specialist with over 19 years of experience in construction, oil & gas, and infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia Skilled in environmental management, regulatory compliance, sustainability, and auditing, with expertise in implementing sustainability programs, conducting risk assessments, and leading environmental training Experienced in adhering to Client COP, NCEC/US EPA, MEWA, NCWM, Saudi Aramco, RCER, and IFC regulations, covering areas such as CESMP, GHG emissions, environmental monitoring, waste management, impact mitigation, and risk assessment
Expanding to the 8Rs
As environmental challenges grew more complex, the 3Rs framework expanded into the 8Rs in the early 2000s, offering a more comprehensive approach to sustainability:
Refuse: Actively reject single-use plastics and unnecessary items to prevent waste at the source
Reduce: Lower overall consumption and waste generation
Reuse: Extend product lifecycles through creative reuse.
Recycle: Transform waste into new products.
Repair: Fix broken items instead of discarding them, fostering sustainability
Rethink: Reevaluate purchasing decisions and incorporate sustainability training
Repurpose: Find alternative uses for items destined for disposal
Responsibility: Cultivate accountability in individuals and organizations for their waste This expanded framework encourages proactive, holistic waste management, going beyond the original 3Rs by emphasizing prevention and stewardship.
The Shift from 3Rs to 8Rs: A Holistic Approach
The transition to the 8Rs reflects a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability Recycling alone is no longer sufficient to combat climate change and plastic pollution Rejecting unnecessary items and embracing responsibility are crucial steps toward meaningful impact.
Modern Applications and Impact
Today, the 8Rs guide businesses, communities, and sustainability initiatives worldwide Zero-waste movements, corporate programs, and educational campaigns increasingly promote refusing single-use plastics, repairing goods, and repurposing materials These principles are becoming standard practice across industries, from retail to construction.
Building Beyond Waste
The evolution from the 3Rs to the 8Rs represents more than a shift in waste management it signals a transformation in mindset This framework fosters innovation, accountability, and long-term environmental stewardship By combining the simplicity of the 3Rs with the depth of the 8Rs, we move toward a resilient, forward-thinking model that redefines how we live, work, and consume building a truly sustainable future.
In conclusion, the 8Rs framework sets a new benchmark for environmental responsibility by expanding traditional waste management into a comprehensive, proactive approach By embracing refusal, repair, repurposing, and personal accountability alongside reduction, reuse, and recycling, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce their environmental footprint This holistic mindset not only addresses the complexities of today’s sustainability challenges but also fosters innovation and long-term stewardship. Adopting the 8Rs is essential for building cleaner, more sustainable communities and industries that respect both our planet and future generations
Upcycling of Date-Palm Waste in Saudi Arabia: A Sustainable Pathway for Water Treatment and Soil Enrichment
1 0 The Untapped platform in the kingdom
Saudi Arabia, with its sprawling date palm plantations, is the largest producer of dates globally, accounting for approximately 17% of the world's total production With over 33 million date palms cultivated across the Kingdom, the industry generates a significant amount of agricultural waste, including leaves, fronds, and fruit residues. While the cultivation of dates has long been a source of pride and sustenance for the nation, the rapid expansion of industry has created a pressing challenge: managing the vast quantities of waste generated annually
2.0 The Challenge of Date-Palm Waste Management
Date-palm plantations produce immense amounts of biomass, primarily from their fronds and leaves, which are pruned regularly to maintain the health of the trees and optimize crop yield On average, a single date palm tree can produce 10–25 kg of dry leaves annually, depending on its age and conditions With millions of trees, this translates to hundreds of thousands of tons of agricultural waste being generated each year in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the abundance of this biomass, the Kingdom faces a lack of downstream facilities to process and upcycle this waste effectively Much of the material is either burned, resulting in air pollution, or discarded in landfills, which contributes to environmental degradation. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity. With the right technologies and strategies, the Kingdom can transform date-palm waste into valuable resources for water treatment and agricultural enhancement
Author: Omer Muhammad Siddiq
Senior Sustainability Consultant having over a decade of experience and record contributions in flagship construction projects of PIF across the Kingdom Being a Chartered Environmentalist and curious researcher, Omer has published research and review articles after analyzing kingdom's potential in downstream management of date-palm waste
3.0 Turning Waste into Value: Biochar from Date-Palm Leaves
Recent scientific advancements have opened promising avenues for utilizing date-palm waste, particularly through the production of biochar Biochar is a carbon-rich material obtained by heating organic waste (such as leaves and fronds) in a controlled, oxygen-limited environment a process known as pyrolysis Over the past five years, several studies have highlighted the potential of biochar derived from date-palm biomass for water treatment and soil fertility improvement Few insights into biochar and its applications are discussed below:
3.1 Biochar for Water Treatment
Saudi Arabia is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, relying heavily on desalination for its freshwater supply This places an enormous strain on energy resources and the environment Biochar, with its porous structure and high adsorption capacity, offers a sustainable alternative for water treatment
Adsorption of Contaminants: Research from King Saud University demonstrated that biochar produced from date-palm leaves effectively removes heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic from contaminated water. The study highlighted the biochar’s high surface area and functional groups, which enable it to absorb toxic elements efficiently (Al-Farraj et al , 2020)
Desalination Support: Studies from the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) explored the use of biochar in desalination pre-treatment systems, where it helped reduce biofouling and improved the efficiency of membrane systems (Almutairi et al , 2022)
3.2 Enhancing Soil Fertility
Beyond water treatment, biochar has proven to be an excellent soil conditioner Research over the past five years has consistently shown that biochar improves soil's water retention capacity, nutrient availability, and microbial activity
A study published by King Faisal University revealed that incorporating biochar derived from date-palm fronds into sandy soils improved crop yields by 20–30%, thanks to enhanced nutrient retention and
4.0 Unlocking the Potential of the Upcycling Industry
The upcycling of date-palm waste into biochar and other valuable products represents a significant opportunity for Saudi Arabia to advance its sustainability goals The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship, circular economy practices, and innovation-driven industries Leveraging date-palm waste aligns perfectly with these priorities
4.1 Key Opportunities:
1.Scaling Biochar Production Facilities: Establishing pyrolysis plants across the Kingdom can help process the vast quantities of date-palm waste while creating jobs and boosting the local economy
2 Promoting Research and Development: Continued investment in R&D will allow Saudi researchers to unlock new applications for date-palm biochar in water treatment and agriculture
3 Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between government agencies, universities, and private companies can accelerate the adoption of upcycling technologies.
4 2 Environmental and Economic Impact
By upcycling date-palm waste, Saudi Arabia can achieve a triple win: reducing environmental pollution, enhancing water and soil quality, and creating a sustainable bioeconomy Furthermore, this approach has the potential to position the Kingdom as a global leader in agricultural waste management and green innovation
5.0
Conclusion
The upcycling of date-palm waste is more than just a sustainability initiative it is a transformative opportunity for Saudi Arabia to address pressing environmental challenges while creating economic value By investing in biochar production and other innovative solutions, the Kingdom can turn its agricultural residues into powerful tools for water purification and soil enrichment
As Saudi Arabia continues to lead the global date industry, it now has the chance to set an example for sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring that every part of the date-palm tree contributes to a greener, more prosperous future
References
Ahmed, M., Al-Farraj, A., & Al-Saif, S. (2021). Biochar amendments: Improving soil salinity and crop yields in arid regions. KAUST Journal of Agricultural Research, 12(3), 245-260.
Al-Farraj, A , Ibrahim, M , & Al-Fahad, S (2020) Adsorption of heavy metals using biochar derived from date-palm leaves King Saud University Journal of Environmental Studies, 8(4), 123-135
Almutairi, F , Khalil, A , & Al-Hussain, A (2022) Biochar pre-treatment for desalination efficiency enhancement KACST Journal of Water Science, 10(2), 98-110
Al-Saif, S , Ahmed, M , & Al-Qahtani, H (2019) Improving sandy soils with biochar from date-palm fronds King Faisal University Journal of Sustainable Agriculture, 15(1), 56-67
Digital agriculture of the future - How Saudi Arabia is achieving food security with AI, hyperfood and sustainable water management
Shaping the Future in a Water-Scarce World: METTA Green Deep Tech’s Innovative Approach
Saudi Arabia faces one of the world’s most severe water scarcity challenges, with extremely high per capita water consumption and limited renewable water resources. According to the FAO and World Resources Institute, this scarcity poses significant geopolitical and economic risks, especially as the kingdom strives to meet the ambitious goals of Vision 2030 Addressing these challenges requires sustainable, innovative solutions that rethink food security, water availability, and economic resilience in the Gulf region
The Challenge: Water and Food Security Under Pressure
Agriculture in Saudi Arabia consumes over 80% of the country’s water resources, often with low efficiency Meanwhile, heavy reliance on food imports creates strategic vulnerabilities and limits local economic growth The MENA region’s renewable water availability is alarmingly low less than 500 m³ per capita annually well below global crisis thresholds. Saudi Arabia must balance production demands with efficiency and sustainability to secure its future
Author: Peter Hegedues
The Solution: METTA Green Deep Tech’s Integrated Approach
METTA Green Deep Tech offers a holistic suite of technologies tailored to the Gulf’s unique environment:
4BiogrowFood: A biological bioactivator—not a traditional fertilizer that boosts crop yields by 20-120% (up to 120% for mushrooms) while cutting water use by 50-60%
Digital Twins & AI Platforms: Intelligent systems optimize irrigation, nutrient management, harvest timing, and climate adaptation
Bio-Hybrid Desalination: An energy-efficient, modular, and environmentally friendly desalination technology designed for local needs
These innovations enable customized solutions for existing farms and new projects in regions like Neom, Tabuk, and Al-Qassim
Dipl -Ing Peter Hegedues, MBE, is founder of Driving Excellence Consulting and co-founder and CTO of METTA Green Deep Tech With over 25 years in biotech, pharma, industry, and sustainability, he delivers disruptive solutions for food, water, and climate Educated at MIT, Columbia, Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, and Japan.
Developed in partnership with MIT and Columbia University, the METTA platform leverages IoT sensors, satellite data, soil analysis, and AI to manage smart farming systems. Results include:
50-60% reduction in water consumption, 20-120% increase in crop yields, 100% organic production without chemical additives
The system dynamically adapts to different plants, soils, and climates, proving that productive agriculture is achievable even in harsh desert conditions.
Rethinking Water: Biological-Hybrid Desalination
Unlike conventional reverse osmosis, METTA’s bio-hybrid desalination consumes 30-40% less energy and produces no harmful residues Its modular design fits decentralized water supply needs, ideal for urban and agricultural use in areas like Neom, Al-Jouf, and Hail.
Hyperfood & 4BiogrowFood: Enhancing Food Security
The concept of Hyperfood represents a new agricultural paradigm focused on nutrient-dense, biologically available, and resilient crops that require fewer resources The 4BiogrowFood bioactivator enhances plant vitality, nutrient uptake, and stress resistance critical factors for Saudi Arabia’s salty, hot, and water-scarce soils.
Economic Opportunities: Local Production and Carbon Markets
Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification, METTA offers scalable systems for food, water, and energy production It supports new CO₂ certification schemes through reforestation, regenerative agriculture, and low-emission bioactivators Local cultivation of crops like rice, vegetables, and medicinal plants fosters value creation, while technology exports target the MENA region, Africa, and emerging Asian markets.
METTA also promotes renewable raw materials such as bamboo and paulownia trees, which rapidly produce biomass for fibers, textiles, building materials, and bioplastics These trees sequester up to 120 tons of CO₂ per hectare annually, forming the basis for certified carbon offset projects This approach integrates ecological restoration with a viable bioeconomy, scalable both regionally and internationally
Investors benefit from dual returns: sustainable environmental impact and economic profitability. METTA serves not only as a technology provider but as a strategic partner in circular economy initiatives, food sovereignty, sustainable resource extraction, and climate technology exports
Synergies with Vision 2030 and Global Collaboration
METTA’s development involves collaboration with leading institutions including MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School, Mannheim University of Technology, and research centers across Switzerland, Japan, the USA, Spain, and India. Partnerships extend to universities and government bodies in India, Malaysia, and Singapore. Saudi Arabia is positioned as a model region within METTA’s infrastructure, with plans to launch flagship projects in water management, agriculture, and digital innovation By integrating cutting-edge technology with biological innovation, METTA Green Deep Tech offers a transformative vision for sustainable agriculture and water management in Saudi Arabia addressing critical challenges while supporting the kingdom’s economic and environmental ambitions
Call to Action
Our 3P+S philosophy - People, Planet, Prosperity + Sustainability - stands for responsibility, impact and longterm thinking
Are you ready to join us in redefining food security, water innovation and digital agriculture in Saudi Arabia?
METTA Green Deep Tech is ready - for pilot projects, joint ventures and strong partnerships with Vision as well as collaborations with investors and family offices. Now is the right time. Vision 2030 starts today.
We Begin from the Earth and Continue with Sustainability
Youth in sustainable scientific and practical investigations
Scientific and social initiatives promote sustainability by engaging communities, proposing innovative solutions, and raising awareness about development issues This article focuses on youth-led projects such as the RGS Earth Sciences Team, promoted under the Wasm Environmental Association. It also highlights the development of youth skills and their empowerment to lead projects and volunteer teams One such example is the "Sustainable Earth Program", which aims to empower local youth through comprehensive scientific innovations and earth sciences projects to address geological challenges The program offers training workshops, field projects, and trips to remote locations such as the Tuwaiq caves in Riyadh, all while integrating responsible environmental practices
This project was initiated by a group of Saudi university students in the field, led by founders Omar AlMohammad , Mohammed AlOrf and Sattam Almutairi, in collaboration with a dedicated team of young men and women committed to applying their academic expertise to sustainability issues The cave cleanup project is a practical extension of this vision, in which volunteers launched field campaigns to clean caves and raise awareness of the importance of these fragile ecosystems as part of Saudi Arabia’s environmental and geological heritage.
This integration of environmental awareness, education, and fieldwork serves as clear evidence of the effective role of youth initiatives in supporting sustainable development goals and creating an educated generation capable of addressing environmental issues both scientifically and practically.
Authors:
Introduction: Al Maha Nasser Al Otaibi
First paragraph: Rahaf Mubarak Al Dosari
Second paragraph: Dana Al Anzi
Third paragraph: Remain Al Faraj
Conclusion: Al Shaima Al Otaibi
Coordination: Sara Al Muhya, Lama Awad
Proofreading: Mona Al Dhuwaib, Lina Masoud
Sustainable Earth Program, targeting all youth in society and (producing research proposals that solve Earth Sciences problems), 2025
Youth empowerment for sustainability goes beyond theoretical knowledge
In addition to targeted field programs, youth play a key role in sustainability by developing essential leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills Strengthening these personal and professional competencies has become integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, as they are crucial for ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of environmental projects.
Youth empowerment is not limited to providing them with knowledge alone; it also involves building their capacity in leadership, decision-making, collaboration, and effective communication Therefore, many initiatives have begun to focus on preparing an environmentally conscious generation capable of addressing environmental challenges through solutions and innovations, such as hackathons and the Sustainable Earth Program, whose participants have produced impactful research and innovative solutions.
Field Trips to Dahl Bin Rashid Caves, Tuwaiq Mountains (Edge of the World), 2024-2025
Training workshops and interactive activities provide a fertile environment for enhancing these capabilities, allowing youth to actively participate in analyzing environmental issues and proposing practical alternatives. Through workshops, volunteer teams, and multidisciplinary collaborations, youth are encouraged to take the initiative, present innovative ideas, and work together to achieve real environmental change.
Engaging youth and non-profit organizations in real-life experiences beyond theoretical learning and real-world problem-solving opportunities fosters a sense of responsibility and belonging Sustainability thus becomes not only a conceptual goal but also a personal and societal value something today’s youth are genuinely striving to embody.
From individual awareness to societal impact towards long-term sustainability
This article emphasizes that sustainability is no longer a choice, but a necessity that impacts our current lives and the future of generations to come. With the lunch of various youth programs and diverse volunteer initiatives, young people have emerged as a driving force toward achieving effective sustainable development.
These programs highlight the importance of engaging youth in environmental and geological sustainability efforts through field and training initiatives such as the Sustainable Earth Program and the Cave Cleanup Initiative, as well as other grassroots youth-led projects that create a sustainable community impact, empowering them to take action, develop solutions, and enhance their skills.
Sustainability is not just an environmental goal; it is a comprehensive journey that begins with individual awareness and leads to tangible societal impact Empowering youth and engaging them in practical projects is essential to ensuring long-term impact and successfully achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
We believe that every initiative led by knowledgeable and committed youth represents a real step toward a more balanced future. Providing young people with the space to experiment, learn, and lead is what truly drives sustainable transformation and ensures the continuity of impactful environmental work.
Will we simply observe change, or will we become part of it?
We invite readers to reflect:
"What small step can you take today to contribute to building a more sustainable society?"
Conclusion
Empowering youth with leadership skills and energy is vital to the success of sustainability initiatives. Through training, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving, youth become active contributors to environmental change. These experiences transform sustainability from a concept into a lived value, ensuring lasting impact and real progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals
Projects like the Sustainable Earth Program and other youth-led initiatives demonstrate how real change can be achieved through education, fieldwork, and innovative solutions, contributing to building a generation capable of addressing environmental challenges.
This article underscores that youth represent the most valuable investment in sustainability, as they not only understand it but actively work to advance it Notably, a significant portion of this article was written by beneficiaries of the very youth programs it highlights.
Ultimately, real change begins with deliberate planning and committed action. So, what will your next step toward sustainability be?
Health Starts Beneath Your Feet: The Link Between Environmental Pollution and Human Health
Introduction
As environmental pollution accelerates, we increasingly witness its direct impacts on our daily health From the air we breathe to the water we drink, the environment mirrors our well-being But what if preventive solutions begin with our environmental awareness?
The Concept of Environmental Health
Environmental health focuses on studying environmental factors chemical, physical, or biological that impact human health These factors include air and water quality, exposure to chemicals, waste, and climate changes
Examples of Pollution's Effects
1- Air Pollution
Air pollution contributes to the rise of respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis According to the World Health Organization, air pollution causes approximately 7 million deaths globally each year (World Health Organization).
2- Water Pollution
Author: Raneem Anas Al Amary
Water pollution leads to the spread of intestinal diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid Reports indicate that approximately 1 4 million people die each year due to contaminated drinking water (Medical News Today).
3- Chemical Waste
Exposure to chemical waste, such as heavy metals and organic compounds, can affect the nervous and immune systems and increase cancer risk Persistent chemicals like PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" due to their non-degradable nature and accumulation in the environment and human tissues (Ruffalo, 2025).
Raneem Al Amary, a passionate biology graduate (GPA 4 50/5) from Princess Nourah University, with internship experience as an Environmental Specialist at Ebro Environmental Services Trained in ISO 14001 and ISO 9001, and skilled in environmental reports, impact assessments, and sustainability practices. I actively create science-based awareness content and infographics, combining environmental knowledge with visual design I share my work on TikTok under the account @biologist ran, aiming to simplify scientific concepts and promote sustainable behavior I proudly represented my university at COP16 and aspire to grow in environmental health and sustainability fields
The Individual's Role in Reducing Environmental Impact
Community Engagement: Participating in awareness campaigns and local environmental initiatives
Self-Education: Staying informed about environmental developments and applying healthy practices in daily life.
Recommendations
Integrating Environmental Health into Education: Including environmental and health concepts in curricula to raise awareness among future generations
Supporting Government Policies: Encouraging governments to implement policies that protect the environment and promote public health.
Enhancing Scientific Research*: Supporting studies that explore the relationship between environment and health to guide future policies.
Conclusion
When we realize that the environment is not just our surroundings but the foundation of our health, we begin to take steps toward change. Every action we take to protect the environment is an investment in our health and that of future generations.
References
- World Health Organization (n d ) *Air pollution* https://www who int/health-topics/air-pollution
- Medical News Today (n d ) *Water pollution and human health* https://www medicalnewstoday com/articles/water-pollution-andhuman-health
- Ruffalo, M (2025, March 10) *Forever chemicals and their toxic legacy* The Guardian https://www theguardian com/commentisfree/2025/mar/10/forever-chemicals-pfas-mark-ruffalo
Human Resources at the Heart of Sustainability: Multinational Perspectives on Strategic Impact
In today’s ever-shifting world, sustainability has evolved far beyond its environmental roots it’s now a compass for how organizations define success, lead with integrity, and grow with purpose I’ve lived this evolution from the inside Over the course of my leadership journey in sustainability-driven industries, I’ve seen HR transform from a support function into a strategic force—one capable of turning global aspirations into daily realities
I’ve had the privilege of leading HR across continents, where each market brought a new lesson in balance between global ambition and local nuance, between bold vision and grounded execution. What I’ve come to believe deeply is this: HR is the thread that weaves together people, purpose, and planet
HR as a Strategic Lever in ESG Integration
When we embed sustainability goals into how we reward, develop, and assess talent, they move from being ideals to becoming ways of working In one industrial multinational I served, I was part of a
Author: Reem Algasim
Reem Algasim is a global HR leader with deep experience in sustainability-driven industries Known for bridging purpose and people strategy, she brings a multicultural lens and hands on
Culture, Purpose, and Localization
I’ve learned that culture is the soil in which any sustainability initiative must take root You cannot plant global ESG goals in every region and expect them to bloom the same way In one of the most diverse environments I’ve worked in, I co-created local sustainability roadmaps with HR peers on the ground. Together, we designed initiatives around local needs—upskilling programs for communities, inclusive hiring with a regional lens, and even small-scale biodiversity efforts that reflected employees’ pride in place
I vividly remember a moment in a digital infrastructure firm where we reframed our EVP to center well-being and environmental action It wasn’t just for optics Employees told us, “This finally feels like us ” That’s the power of HR when it listens and leads.
We also reimagined onboarding to make sustainability a shared mindset from day one Our leadership models included ESG behaviors Recognition programs celebrated acts of environmental and social stewardship HR wasn’t just shaping policies it was shaping identity
The Talent-Sustainability Nexus
Today’s workforce, especially Gen Z and Millennials, want meaning with their work. Across advanced manufacturing and clean energy firms I’ve supported, I helped embed sustainability into how we attracted, inspired, and retained talent
I’ll never forget an executive candidate who looked me in the eye and said, “I’ve had offers, but this is the one that aligns with my values.” That’s when I knew our EVP wasn’t just written well it was working. In another case, we tied executive bonuses to safety and carbon targets. We launched learning platforms where employees could explore sustainability, earn credentials, and see their growth align with global impact The enthusiasm we saw reminded me: people want to be part of something bigger HR can give them that chance
Lessons for the Region: Aligning Vision and Action
Living and leading in a region undergoing profound transformation, I’ve seen how the promise of sustainability must be matched by structural enablers From my experience, three lessons rise to the top:
When ESG is part of every HR system from hiring to rewards it becomes a shared language, not a side conversation
Localizing global strategies is not optional; it’s essential to build trust and traction
Putting purpose at the core of EVP isn’t idealistic it’s strategic. It fuels loyalty, resilience, and innovation. Across energy, aerospace, and digital industries, the companies that stand out are those where HR is at the strategy table not just taking notes, but drawing the blueprint
A Forward-Looking Vision: HR as the Catalyst
I believe the future of sustainability will be written not only in carbon metrics and reports, but in how people think, feel, and act inside organizations. And that is HR’s realm. We’re not just process guardians we’re architects of belief. The ones who can shift ESG from compliance to conviction. To create real and lasting change, we must reimagine HR not as the implementer of sustainability but its activator Its heart Its voice Its human touch
Cultivating Green Oases: The Promise of HydrogelEnhanced Green Roofs in Arid Climates
Introduction
In regions characterized by extreme heat and water scarcity, such as Saudi Arabia, the pursuit of sustainable urban development necessitates innovative solutions that can transform challenging environments into thriving, eco-friendly spaces While large-scale national initiatives and futuristic city projects often capture headlines, a more granular yet profoundly impactful strategy lies in the application of advanced horticultural technologies to create green infrastructure. One such promising innovation is the use of hydrogel-enhanced growing media for green roofs This approach offers a viable pathway to introduce lush vegetation into arid urban landscapes, mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air quality, and enhancing biodiversity, all while conserving precious water resources. This article will delve into the science behind hydrogel-enhanced green roofs, their specific benefits in arid climates, and their potential to revolutionize sustainable urban planning in water-stressed regions
The Challenge of Green Infrastructure in Arid Environments
Traditional green infrastructure, such as parks and gardens, often struggles in arid and semi-arid climates due to high evapotranspiration rates, intense solar radiation, and limited water availability. Green roofs, while offering numerous environmental benefits in temperate zones, face even greater challenges in these harsh conditions The shallow depth of typical green roof substrates, coupled with their low water-holding capacity, makes them highly susceptible to drought stress. Maintaining vegetation on these roofs often requires significant irrigation, which can negate the environmental benefits in water-scarce regions This inherent conflict between the desire for urban greening and the reality of water limitations has historically hindered the widespread adoption of green roofs in arid cities
Author: Rida Tadmouri
Environmental Consultant and GIS Specialist with 8+ years in hydrology and hydraulic modeling Expertise in groundwater assessments, environmental impact studies, and sustainability initiatives Experienced in teaching and research, with a Ph D in Environmental Engineering. Proficient in GIS, hydrological simulations, and project management. Bilingual in Arabic and English
Hydrogels: A Solution for Water Retention
Hydrogels, also known as superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), are cross-linked polymeric networks that have the remarkable ability to absorb and retain large quantities of water, sometimes hundreds of times their own weight [1] When incorporated into green roof growing media, hydrogels act as miniature reservoirs, slowly releasing stored water to plant roots as needed This mechanism significantly enhances the water-holding capacity of the substrate, making it more resilient to drought conditions and reducing the frequency and volume of irrigation required.
How Hydrogels Work in Green Roof Substrates
When hydrogels are mixed with the growing media, they swell upon contact with water (from rainfall or irrigation), forming a gel-like substance This absorbed water is then gradually released to the plants through osmosis and capillary action as the surrounding soil dries. This continuous supply of moisture helps maintain plant turgor, reduces plant stress, and promotes healthier growth, even during prolonged dry periods. Studies have shown that hydrogel amendments can significantly increase water retention in sandy soils by up to 50%, dramatically improving crop survival rates in arid regions [2]
Benefits of Hydrogel-Enhanced Green Roofs in Arid Climates
The integration of hydrogels into green roof systems offers several compelling benefits for arid environments:
1 Reduced Irrigation Demand: This is perhaps the most significant advantage By increasing the waterholding capacity of the substrate, hydrogels drastically reduce the need for supplemental irrigation, conserving precious water resources This makes green roofs a more sustainable and economically viable option in water-stressed regions
2.Enhanced Plant Survival and Health: Hydrogels provide a consistent water supply to plants, minimizing drought stress and improving overall plant vitality. This leads to higher plant survival rates, particularly during the critical establishment phase of a green roof [3]
3 Improved Thermal Performance: Green roofs, by their nature, contribute to cooling buildings and mitigating the urban heat island effect Hydrogels enhance this benefit by ensuring healthier, more robust vegetation, which in turn provides more effective shading and evapotranspirative cooling
4.Nutrient Retention: Beyond water, hydrogels can also help retain nutrients in the growing media, preventing their leaching and making them more available to plants. This contributes to healthier plant growth and reduces the need for excessive fertilization
5 Expanded Plant Palette: With improved water availability, a wider variety of plant species, including those that might otherwise struggle in arid green roof conditions, can be successfully cultivated This allows for greater biodiversity and aesthetic appeal
Applications and Potential in Arid Urban Development
The application of hydrogel-enhanced green roofs extends beyond individual buildings, offering significant potential for large-scale urban greening initiatives in arid regions These systems can be integrated into:
1 Commercial and Residential Buildings: Providing aesthetic and environmental benefits to new and existing structures
2.Public Infrastructure: Greening bus shelters, pedestrian walkways, and other urban elements to enhance public spaces.
3 Industrial Facilities: Utilizing large roof areas for greening, contributing to localized cooling and air quality improvement
For cities in arid climates, such as those in Saudi Arabia, the widespread adoption of hydrogel-enhanced green roofs could contribute significantly to achieving sustainability goals. They offer a practical and effective way to increase green cover, combat the urban heat island effect, and improve the overall environmental performance of urban areas without placing undue strain on limited water resources This technology aligns perfectly with the need for innovative, water-wise solutions in regions facing extreme climatic conditions
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the promising benefits, the implementation of hydrogel-enhanced green roofs in arid environments is not without its challenges:
1 Cost: The initial cost of installing green roofs, especially those incorporating specialized materials like hydrogels, can be higher than conventional roofing However, the long-term savings in energy consumption and reduced irrigation can offset these costs
2.Hydrogel Longevity and Environmental Impact: While generally considered safe, the long-term degradation and potential environmental impact of hydrogels need to be continuously monitored and researched Developing biodegradable hydrogels from sustainable sources is a key area for future research
3 Plant Selection: Careful selection of appropriate plant species that can thrive in the specific microclimates of green roofs in arid regions, even with hydrogel amendments, is crucial for long-term success
4.Maintenance and Monitoring: While irrigation needs are reduced, regular maintenance, including nutrient management and occasional supplemental watering during extreme heatwaves, is still necessary. Smart monitoring systems can help optimize these processes
Future research and development should focus on optimizing hydrogel formulations for specific arid conditions, exploring new and sustainable hydrogel materials, and developing integrated smart systems for green roof management. Furthermore, pilot projects and demonstration sites in arid urban environments will be crucial for showcasing the effectiveness and scalability of this
Conclusion
The integration of hydrogel-enhanced growing media into green roof systems offers a compelling and innovative strategy for cultivating green oases in arid urban landscapes By significantly improving water retention and plant health, this technology addresses the critical challenge of water scarcity, making green roofs a viable and sustainable solution for cities in water-stressed regions As urban populations continue to grow and climate change intensifies, the ability to transform barren rooftops into vibrant, ecologically beneficial spaces becomes increasingly vital. Hydrogel-enhanced green roofs represent a powerful tool in the arsenal of sustainable urban planning, offering a practical and impactful way to create more livable, resilient, and environmentally friendly cities in the world's driest climates
References
[1] Palanivelu, S D (2022) *Hydrogel Application in Urban Farming: Potentials and Challenges* MDPI Retrieved from [https://www mdpi com/2073-4360/14/13/2590](https://www mdpi com/2073-4360/14/13/2590)
[2] Agbna, G H D (2025) *Hydrogel Performance in Boosting Plant Resilience to Drought Stress: A Review* PMC Retrieved from [https://pmc ncbi nlm nih gov/articles/PMC12027221/](https://pmc ncbi nlm nih gov/articles/PMC12027221/)
[3] Savi, T (2014) *Green roofs for a drier world: Effects of hydrogel amendments on hydrological and ecological behavior* ScienceDirect Retrieved from [https://www sciencedirect com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969714006780] (https://www sciencedirect com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969714006780)
Youth Driving Sustainability in Saudi Arabia and the Region
Introduction
Sustainability is no longer a mere concept it’s an urgent necessity for Saudi Arabia and the broader region. With mounting environmental challenges such as water scarcity, desertification, and climate change, the Kingdom is striving to balance economic growth with ecological preservation Saudi Vision 2030 aligns with global sustainability goals by promoting clean energy, resource conservation, and biodiversity protection. In this pursuit, Saudi youth are emerging as changemakers, driving real-world solutions and championing environmental stewardship at multiple levels
1. Renewable Energy
Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in transitioning its energy portfolio. The Kingdom aims for renewables to comprise up to 50% of the energy mix by 2030, with flagship projects like the Sudair Solar PV Project (1 5 GW) and Dumat Al Jandal Wind Farm Yet the momentum goes beyond infrastructure; youth are engaging in research, innovation, and skills-building Initiatives like the Saudi Youth for Sustainability at KAUST cultivate leaders in clean energy, while national AI/IoT programs support smart-grid and green-hydrogen development.
2. Water Conservation & Smart Resource Management
Water security remains a defining issue in the Kingdom Intelligent systems leveraging AI and IoT are transforming how Saudi Arabia manages scarce water resources. A research-driven example is the smart-waste management system for Makkah, using sensors during Hajj to reduce waste and preserve hygiene. Other IoT-based agriculture tools help monitor irrigation efficiency and combat desertification Young engineers and students are actively designing and implementing these advanced frameworks
Author: Riman Hisham Yosef Faraj
I’m Riman, a botany major with a strong passion for sustainability and youth empowerment in Saudi Arabia I believe that raising environmental awareness, fostering innovation, and engaging communities are key to building a sustainable future Through my studies and projects, I aim to create meaningful impact that bridges knowledge with realworld action. I aspire to lead environmental initiatives that improve quality of life and help build a more conscious and sustainable society
3. Waste Management & Circular Economy
Under its National Environment Strategy, Saudi Arabia aims to recycle 95% of its waste by 2040, adding approximately SR 120 billion to GDP and creating over 100,000 jobs The National Center for Waste Management (MWAN) champions circular economy models and technologies featured at events like IFAT 2024 Youth-led campaigns in schools and universities promote waste segregation, recycling, and food-waste reduction, partnering with NGOs and UNDP initiatives.
4. Biodiversity & Sustainable Agriculture
Projects such as Green Riyadh, which plans to plant over 7 5 million trees in the capital, integrate irrigation recycling and biodiversity protection Meanwhile, the Al Baydha Project focuses on permaculture and land restoration in the Hijaz foothills, reviving ecosystems and rainwater harvesting Youth engagement ranges from volunteering in planting campaigns to supporting agroecology and desert-smart farming practices.
5. Empowerment Through Networks & Conferences
Networks like the Saudi Youth Climate Network and events such as KSA LCOY bring youth together to craft climate policies, exchange innovations, and advocate at national and international levels A PwC 2024 report indicates that 91% of Saudi youth are aware of the SDGs, with strong inclination towards clean water, energy, education, and environmental action. Platforms like Saudi Youth for Sustainability encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and scale-up of sustainable initiatives.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Saudi youth are leading the Kingdom’s green evolution innovating in renewables, revolutionizing water and waste management, and safeguarding biodiversity Bolstered by Vision 2030, government programs, and international networks, they are not spectators but drivers of real change. The question now is: Will you join them? What sustainable action can you begin today whether small or significant to contribute to a greener future?
References
- Vision 2030 & renewable targets
- Sudair Solar PV, Dumat Al Jandal
- Smart waste system for Makkah
- IoT in agriculture
- Recycling plan and economic impact
- Circular economy & IFAT 2024
- Green Riyadh & biodiversity
- Al Baydha project
- Saudi Youth Climate Network & LCOY
- PwC youth engagement survey
- Saudi Youth for Sustainability at KAUST
The Critical Role of Sustainability in Saudi Golf Development
I.Introduction: The Rise of Golf in Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 represents a transformative roadmap for the Kingdom, with economic diversification as a central pillar. This ambitious plan seeks to reduce reliance on oil revenues and foster new sectors, including tourism and leisure 1 The development of highquality golf courses is strategically aligned with these goals, positioned as a key element in attracting international tourists and enhancing the Kingdom's global image as a premier destination for sports and recreation.1
Historically, golf in Saudi Arabia was a relatively modest affair, with early courses often being sand-based "browns" designed primarily as amenities for expatriate workers, particularly within the Aramco complex. The Rolling Hills Golf Club in Dhahran, for instance, began as a sand course before transitioning to grass in 2002.13 This evolution signifies a growing commitment to aligning with international standards and catering to a broader golfing audience The construction of grass courses like the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club along the Red Sea coast marked a significant step in this direction, hosting the country's first European Tour event in 2017. The current wave of golf course development represents an even more ambitious phase, with significant investment in creating world-class facilities designed by some of the most renowned names in golf course architecture
Author: Riyad Elite
Project manager with over Twelve years of experience in irrigation, landscaping, civil and electrical works, I have successfully led and executed multiple large-scale projects for prestigious clients such as King Abdulaziz International Airport, King Abdullah Sports City, and Knowledge Economic City.
The Critical Role of Sustainability in Saudi Golf Development:
Sustainability is not merely a consideration but a fundamental principle guiding golf course development in Saudi Arabia, driven by the national "Green Agenda" spearheaded by Golf Saudi2
“Sustainability has formed a permanent basis in every work related to the Golf development in the Kingdom” Mr Yasir Al Rumayyan His Excellency the Chairman of the Board of Saudi Golf Federation and the Chairman of Golf Saudi Company
This strategy aims for responsible development that delivers net positive impacts on the environment and communities, aligning with the broader sustainability goals of Saudi Vision 2030 Water conservation is a critical focus in this arid region Developers are strategically selecting drought-tolerant turfgrasses, such as Platinum TE Paspalum, known for its salt tolerance and ability to thrive with less water 2
“Shura Links will provide an unparalleled golfing experience, offering a visually stunning, natural course right here on the Red Sea. As ever, it’s not enough for us to provide spectacular experiences and world class playing conditions. We are committed to ensuring Shura Links aligns with our ambition to set new sustainability standards. From innovative turf management and careful foliar feeding, we’re putting respect for nature above everything else,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG.
Advanced irrigation technologies, including soil sensors and POGO systems, are being implemented to optimize water usage and ensure efficient irrigation management The potential use of recycled water for irrigation is also being explored as a forward-thinking approach to address water scarcity, with KAUST playing a role in developing innovative wastewater treatment technologies 54 Environmental best practices are also being widely adopted These include minimizing maintained turf areas and utilizing natural landscapes to reduce water consumption and preserve habitats. Zero-herbicide policies and the use of foliar feeding with natural nutrients are being implemented to reduce the reliance on harmful chemicals. Habitat development and protection plans are being created to integrate golf courses with local ecosystems and support biodiversity The commitment to sustainability is further validated by the fact that several Saudi golf courses, including Dirab Golf & Country Club, Riyadh Golf Club, Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, and Safaa Golf Club, have achieved GEO Foundation certifications for their sustainable operations 2 2 3
Jonathan Smith, Founder and Executive Director of GEO Foundation, said: “It is encouraging to see Golf Saudi making progress in the delivery of their national sustainability strategy Two years on from the launch of this comprehensive framework, the national association continues to provide direction for all involved in golf in Saudi Arabia and this now extends to these four facilities, which have received GEO certification in light of work to date and also commitments for continual improvement ”
Technological Advancements:
Technological advances are important in the shift toward sustainable golf practices. GPS devices and mobile apps are now commonly used to enhance golf course management by optimizing maintenance routines and resource use For example, the Toro Company offers GPS-guided sprayers that apply chemicals only where needed, greatly reducing the quantity used and minimizing runoff into the environment
Similarly, mobile apps like the Rain Bird app allow course superintendents to control irrigation systems remotely, adjusting watering schedules based on real-time weather data to avoid overwatering. Cloud-based management systems further enable courses to integrate data across various operations, improving efficiency and reducing waste
Conclusion: Shaping Saudi Arabia's Golfing Future:
Saudi Arabia's foray into golf course design and execution management represents a significant and ambitious undertaking, firmly rooted in the Kingdom's Vision 2030. The scale of development, the caliber of international partners involved, and the unwavering commitment to sustainability underscore the strategic importance of this sector in Saudi Arabia's future With a robust pipeline of projects, a clear regulatory framework guided by Golf Saudi, and a growing ecosystem of supporting infrastructure and services, the Kingdom is rapidly emerging as a noteworthy player in the global golf landscape The long-term potential for Saudi Arabia to become a premier golfing destination is substantial, offering compelling opportunities for investment and growth across the entire value chain, from design and construction to management and the provision of innovative and sustainable solutions Works cited
3 Red Sea Global reveals designs for Shura Links golf course, accessed May 12, 2025, https://www redseaglobal com/en/w/mediacenter/red-sea-global-reveals-designs-for-shura-links-golf-course/
Decarbonizing Concrete: Data, AI, and the Future of Sustainable Construction in Saudi Arabia
The built environment and construction industry continues to shape our future yet it’s also a major contributor to global carbon emissions. Among its biggest culprits is concrete, the world’s most widely used man-made material, responsible for approximately 8% of global CO₂ emissions With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 driving national transformation, decarbonizing construction particularly concrete has become a strategic imperative.
In this article, I reflect on and adapt key insights originally authored by Issam Ashur, exploring how digital technologies like real-time data, AI, and carbon tracking platforms are enabling the construction sector in Saudi Arabia to align performance, quality and safety with sustainability.
Rethinking Concrete’s Carbon Footprint
The environmental cost of concrete lies mainly in clinker production an energy-intensive process that releases significant CO₂ Historically, safety and performance have driven construction norms to be overly conservative, often using more cement or longer curing times than necessary and not to mention the material (concrete) wastage that could be significantly and dramatically minimized. These safety margins, while valuable, inadvertently increase carbon emissions We must ask: How can the industry maintain safety and quality while advancing sustainability?
Real-Time Data and Smarter Decision-Making
A key breakthrough comes through the digitization of concrete monitoring Conventional methods like cube or cylindrical testing are slow and limited Now, embedded concrete sensors and cloud analytics enable live insights into curing progress, temperature, and strength development leveraging the well-established maturity method (ASTM C1074-19) for accurate strength prediction.
Author: Rudel Baylon
Rudel has more than two decades of engineering and technical sales experience across Saudi Arabia Specializing in sustainable construction technologies, including advanced concrete sensor systems, he has worked with various prestigious firms, promoting standards-compliant, resource-efficient solutions that align with the Saudi’s Vision 2030 infrastructure goals.
Maturity Method has been practiced for over 70 years and widely accepted across the globe in the construction industry due to its proven reliability for estimating concrete strength
With the availability of real time data, project teams can:
Strip formwork, shoring and shuttering earlier with confidence.
Reduce unnecessary cement content.
Optimize mix designs with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) or low carbon alternatives.
Improve project schedule considerably and avoid additional onsite carbon emissions from machineries and logistics
These incremental changes, when applied across major projects, translate to substantial environmental impact reductions.
AI and the Optimization of Mix Designs
Artificial Intelligence is unlocking new efficiencies in mix design By training models on extensive performance data, AI-powered tools can:
- Predict curing behavior in specific environmental conditions
- Evaluate embodied carbon across design alternatives.
- Recommend optimal, low-carbon materials without compromising quality. This is especially valuable in Saudi Arabia’s harsh climate, where temperature extremes can skew curing outcomes AI empowers engineers to make decisions that are not just cost-effective but climate-smart
Carbon Tracking: Transparency and Accountability
Digital carbon tracking platforms now allow project teams to monitor emissions across an entire project lifecycle from material sourcing to onsite curing. These tools enable:
Real-time carbon accounting.
Benchmarking against ESG targets
Transparent and auditable reporting
Guide procurement choices by emphasizing carbon efficiency rather than solely focusing on cost or durability.
For all present, future and advance infrastructure, mega and giga projects that supports the Saudi’s Vision 2030 namely NEOM, Murabba, Qiddiya, the Red Sea Project, etc. early adoption of such tools ensures alignment with national and global sustainability goals
Opportunity for Scaled Impact in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s massive infrastructure investments offer a unique opportunity: to embed sustainability by design. With regulatory shifts and increasing demand for ESG-compliant practices, construction stakeholders must now prioritize transparency and digital readiness. Sustainability here is not a retrofit it’s a foundation
Toward a Low-Carbon Construction Culture
While the technology is promising, the shift toward more sustainable construction is not purely technical It also requires a cultural change within the industry: greater collaboration between material suppliers, designers, contractors, and policymakers; investment in digital literacy and skills; and a willingness to challenge longstanding assumptions about risk and performance.
Education will play a key role Engineers, architects, and construction managers must be equipped not only with the tools but with the knowledge to interpret and act on data responsibly Academic partnerships, knowledge-sharing platforms, and regional case studies can accelerate this learning curve
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia stands at a pivotal moment to decarbonize its construction sector. By applying data, AI, and carbon intelligence tools, we can move beyond traditional trade-offs delivering projects that are not only efficient and resilient but also aligned with environmental objectives Aside from the benefits and advantages mentioned before, the use of these latest and advance technologies can improve the project and construction schedule by at least 30%.
As we build the future, let’s ensure it’s one rooted in sustainable innovation.
Acknowledgment:
This article is adapted with full respect and recognition to the original work authored by Issam Ashur, Head of International Business Development, Converge His original article, "Decarbonising Concrete: Data, AI, and the Future of Sustainable Construction in Saudi Arabia," provided the foundational insights and inspiration for this version
Global Lessons, Local Impact: How Studying Abroad Shapes Waste Management Behaviours
in Saudi Youth
Introduction
Saudi Arabia, like many fast-developing nations, faces pressing challenges in waste management. Despite national initiatives under Vision 2030, the country struggles with high levels of waste generation, limited recycling infrastructure, and persistent use of disposable materials But what if some of the solutions to these problems are already being brought home through the experiences of Saudi students studying abroad?
Drawing on research from my dissertation in Environmental Science, this article explores how international study shapes the waste management attitudes and behaviours of Saudi students It also highlights the barriers they face when applying these practices at home and offers recommendations for how Saudi Arabia can better harness these global insights.
Why Waste Management Matters?
Author: Wateen Abdulhafiz
Globally, effective waste management reduces greenhouse gas emissions, conserves resources, and protects ecosystems (United Nations, 2022). In Saudi Arabia, however, recycling rates remain low, with most waste sent to landfills. According to a 2020 study by AlSubaie et al , only around 10% of municipal solid waste is recycled, compared to over 45% in the UK (Defra, 2023) This discrepancy presents a critical opportunity: Can returning students become catalysts for advancing waste management in Saudi Arabia?
Wateen Abdulhafiz is an Environmental Science graduate from the University of Exeter, with a research focus on sustainability, waste management, and cross-cultural environmental learning
The Saudi Student Experience
My dissertation surveyed 100 Saudi students who had studied in the UK One key area we examined was recycling behaviours:
Before studying abroad: Only 27% of students regularly recycled, with 35% admitting they rarely or never did so
While in the UK: Over 70% reported that they now recycle “regularly” or “always.”
Why? Participants cited clear infrastructure (like color-coded bins), mandatory university recycling policies, and public awareness campaigns as drivers of their behavioural change
For example, one student shared:
“In the UK, recycling was just part of daily life there were bins for everything, and you felt responsible to sort your waste.”
Other sustainable waste habits, such as reducing single-use plastics, using reusable bags, and composting food waste, also increased significantly during their time abroad
Barriers at Home: Why Practices Don’t Always Stick?
Despite these gains, only 68% of surveyed students believed they could continue their sustainable waste practices after returning to Saudi Arabia. The most common barriers identified were:
Lack of Infrastructure: Many Saudi neighbourhoods do not offer separate recycling bins or organized waste collection systems
Cultural Norms: Social habits around waste remain focused on convenience rather than sustainability, with disposable items still dominant
Limited Public Awareness: Unlike the UK, public campaigns promoting recycling or waste reduction are less widespread or visible.
One student put it succinctly:
“In Saudi Arabia, even if you want to recycle, there’s often no place to put it It’s frustrating ”
Recommendations: Turning Learning into Action
If Saudi Arabia wants to benefit from the sustainability knowledge its young people bring home, particularly regarding waste management, several actions are needed:
Expand Recycling Infrastructure
Saudi municipalities should invest in providing accessible, clearly marked recycling stations in residential, commercial, and educational spaces This includes partnerships with private waste management companies and incentives for recycling businesses (Leal Filho et al , 2019)
Leverage Returning Students as Sustainability Champions
Universities and government bodies can create alumni networks where returning students share their international experiences, perhaps through workshops, community initiatives, or pilot projects on campus and in neighbourhoods As Cialdini (2003) notes, peer influence is a powerful driver of behaviour
Launch National Public Awareness Campaigns
Saudi Arabia could learn from the UK’s highly visible waste campaigns using media, schools, to spread messages about recycling, waste reduction, and circular economy practices (Miller & Prentice, 2016)
Integrate Sustainability into Education
By embedding waste management education into school curricula, Saudi students can develop wasteconscious habits earlier, ensuring that lessons learned abroad are reinforced at home (UNESCO, 2017)
Final Thoughts
The journey toward sustainable waste management in Saudi Arabia requires both top-down and bottom-up efforts. While government policies and infrastructure are essential, the personal experiences of young Saudis studying abroad provide a unique and often untapped resource.
By embracing the lessons learned overseas and addressing the structural barriers that limit local action, Saudi Arabia can accelerate its transition to a more sustainable, waste-conscious society As Vision 2030 moves forward, empowering young people to lead on waste management could prove one of the most effective strategies yet.
SUCCESS STORY OF INDOOR PLANTATION PROGRAM IN JCPDI
BACKGROUND
Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI) is a major economic initiative for the Kingdom and the Jazan Province which is located about 725 km to the south of Jeddah and 60 km to the North of Jazan city It stretches over an area of 106 sq km The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, along with the Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI), is dedicated to ensuring the protection and preservation of Saudi Arabia’s natural resources and public health. Recognizing the potential environmental impact of heavy industries, particularly air pollution, the JCPDI has taken proactive steps to mitigate these effects One of the key initiatives[ZM2] in this effort is the large-scale mangrove plantation project Indoor Plants play a crucial role in improving the indoor air quality, and providing the good working environment for office staff . This initiative aligns with the Royal Commission's commitment to fostering a sustainable and harmonious relationship between industrial development and environmental preservation
INTRODUCTION
The indoor plantation program at JCPDI was initiated to enhance the office environment by incorporating natural elements into the workplace This initiative aligns with our commitment to sustainability and employee well-being The program aimed to improve air quality, boost employee morale, and create a more aesthetically pleasing and productive workspace.
The proposal was prepared and presented to the EPCD Director for the approval; Proposal covered the following key points
• Indoor Plants
• NASA Study
• Indoor Plants Implementation Plan
Author: Dr. Zafar Masood
Dr Zafar Masood is an environmental specialist at Parsons Corporation, Saudi Arabia, with a Ph D in environmental engineering and advanced degrees in chemical engineering A prolific researcher, Dr Zafar has authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications on wastewater treatment, catalytic ozonation, and green energy solutions.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM
Improve indoor air quality and reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Enhance employee productivity, morale, and well-being.
Contribute to greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration
Serve as a scalable model for similar implementations in corporate and governmental offices
SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATION
Nasa Clean Air Study
The NASA Clean Air Study (1989) demonstrated that specific indoor plants absorb CO₂ and remove air pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene NASA recommends one plant per 100 square feet for optimal air purification The influence of the indoor plant on performance was clear on female participants – who performed better when the plant was in the room, compared to when a magazine stand was in the room. Larsen et al. (1998) has suggested the possibility that the presence of indoor plants made people’s mood more positive and that this mood change affected task performance. EIJI SHIBATA1 and NAOTO SUZUKI from Department of Human Studies, Bunkyo Gakuin University did study on “EFFECTS OF
AN INDOOR PLANT ON CREATIVE TASK PERFORMANCE AND MOOD”; they investigated the influence of an indoor plant placed in a room on participants’ performance in an association task, as well as on their mood
Psychological and Productivity Benefits
Studies indicate that green office spaces improve employee focus, creativity, and mental health. Research by Shibata and Suzuki (2002) found that indoor plants positively influence cognitive performance and reduce stress levels
Impact Assessment
Indoor Plantation and Its Contribution to Decarbonization
Indoor plantation plays a significant role in improving air quality, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and promoting sustainability. Through photosynthesis, indoor plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) and release oxygen (O₂), contributing to carbon sequestration and reducing indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Although the CO₂ absorption rate of indoor plants is effective, their cumulative impact in workplaces, homes, and public buildings can contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint. Research, such as the NASA Clean Air Study, highlights that plants can enhance oxygen levels, humidity balance, and indoor air quality, indirectly supporting decarbonization efforts
Incorporating green walls, vertical gardens, and sustainable indoor landscaping into buildings aligns with climate action goals (SDG 13) by promoting low-carbon environments and reducing reliance on artificial air filtration systems. Additionally, integrating indoor greenery into corporate offices, hospitals, and schools fosters a healthier, more sustainable built environment that supports mental well-being and productivity while contributing to global decarbonization efforts
According to the study indoor plants can absorb CO effectively. All the indoor plants absorbed more CO , in the presence of sufficient availability of light intensity .It is estimated that placed 756 plants will contribute in 9.65 Tons of CO absorption each year. As one plant can absorb easily 35 ppm CO on daily basis therefore
2 2
CO2 absorption by one plant in day= 35 ppm
CO2 absorption by 756 plants in year = 35*756*365 = 9,657,900 PPM/year
CO2 absorption in Tons=9,657,900/1000,000
CO2 absorption= 9.657 Tons/year
Improved Air Quality
Significant reduction in indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene
Enhanced oxygen levels and humidity balance, improving respiratory health
Socio-Economic and Productivity Impact
Higher employee satisfaction and reduced stress.
Increased concentration and efficiency, leading to greater workplace productivity.
Reduction in workplace absenteeism due to better indoor environmental quality
Contribution to Sustainability Goals
SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being): Improved office air quality.
SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities & Communities): Promotes green urban planning.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Contributes to CO₂ reduction and decarbonization
SDG 15 (Life on Land): Supports biodiversity and ecological health
IMPLEMENTATION DETAILS
Planning and Selection of Plants
A comprehensive plan was developed to determine the most suitable plants for the indoor environment. Attached as Annex A Factors considered included low maintenance, air-purifying qualities, and aesthetic appeal Indoor Plants were categorized in two following section
Desk Plants
Floor Plants
Money Plant, Dracaena refelxa, Bromeliad and Snake Plants were proposed as desk plants whereas the Cane Palm, Dracaena Gignata, Asparagus and Spider plants were selected as floor plants because of their resilience and ability to thrive indoors
Distribution
Plants were strategically placed in common areas, individual workspaces, meeting rooms, and reception areas to maximize visual and environmental benefits. Employees were encouraged to adopt a plant for their workspace, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility
Maintenance
EPCD and Operation and Maintenance Department prepared the schedule, ensuring regular watering, pruning, and care.
SUCCESS METRICS
Improved Air Quality
Indoor plants have been proven to remove toxins from the air, contributing to a healthier office environment. Studies show a significant reduction in common indoor pollutants, such as formaldehyde and benzene, in offices with abundant plant life.
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The indoor plantation program directly contributes to several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 3,11,12,13&15 and Saudi Green Initiative(SGI).
Employee Satisfaction and Productivity
It was observed that employees feeling more relaxed and focused in the presence of greenery and there was a significant improvement in productivity, with employees attributing the enhanced atmosphere to better concentration and reduced stress levels
LESSONS LEARNED
Selection of Plants
The initial plant selection for the indoor environment demonstrated a high degree of success, primarily due to the careful selection of species informed by the referenced study This study provided valuable insights into the suitability of specific plants for indoor conditions, likely considering factors such as light requirements, humidity tolerance, and air purification capabilities. However, to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of future indoor plant programs, a more comprehensive and adaptive approach is necessary.
Maintenance
RC has the professional maintenance schedule to take care of these plants and team visit to each department once in week However, it was observed that some areas were overlooked occasionally Implementing a more robust tracking system for maintenance tasks could ensure consistency. To account for the natural decline of living plants, a dedicated budget for replacements and supplementary supplies is essential. This proactive approach acknowledges the inherent lifespan limitations of flora, ensuring the continuity and vitality of the indoor plant ecosystem By anticipating natural attrition, the program can maintain its aesthetic and functional integrity
Conclusion
The indoor plantation program conducted by EPCD at JCPDI has been a tremendous success, greatly enhancing the office environment and significantly boosting employee well-being and productivity. By learning from our experiences and refining our approach, we can continue to foster a more attractive, healthy, and sustainable workplace This initiative not only benefits our employees but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability and innovation, setting a positive example for the industry
Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability in Saudi Arabia: Advancing Solutions for a Water-Scarce Future
Introduction
With renewable freshwater availability below 100 cubic meters per capita annually far beneath the UN threshold of 1,700 cubic meters Saudi Arabia historically relied on fossil aquifers and desalination
Desalination's fossil fuel dependency and hypersaline brine discharge raise sustainability concerns. Nanotechnology offers potential solutions within Vision 2030's framework.
The Scope of Saudi Arabia’s Water Crisis
Key factors include rapid population growth, agricultural water consumption (82% of total withdrawals), and energy-intensive water production (General Authority for Statistics, 2023). Desalination supplies nearly 60% of potable water but creates ecological disruptions New technologies are necessary to address these interconnected challenges
Author: Sarah Al-Buqami
Sara Albaqami is an environmental sciences student and the president of the Environment Club at PNU She has represented her university at COP16, Sara has also participated in an international environmental speech competition in the UAE, presenting on nanocoating technology. spearheaded multiple campus-wide sustainability initiatives, and actively contributed to national water innovation programs, including the Ministry of Environment’s Water Hackathon
3 1 Water Purification
Nanomaterials exhibit advanced physicochemical properties for contaminant removal:
Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs): Effective in removing heavy metals through surface complexation
Graphene Oxide Membranes: Offer superior antifouling properties and mechanical strength
Nanosilver Particles: Exhibit antimicrobial properties effective against bacteria and viruses.
3 2 Desalination Optimization
Nanocomposite membranes integrating titanium dioxide and zeolites increase permeability and reduce fouling, achieving energy savings up to 20% KAUST leads innovations in this domain, developing advanced graphene oxide-based and carbon honeycomb membranes for improved desalination efficiency
3.3 Real-Time Water Monitoring
Nanosensors enable real-time detection of heavy metals, organic pollutants, pharmaceutical residues, and pathogens, enhancing early intervention and water safety National initiatives integrate these sensors into municipal water systems to bolster water quality monitoring
3.4 Precision Agriculture
Nanotechnology advances improve agricultural water efficiency:
Nano-fertilizers: Enable controlled nutrient release, improving uptake and reducing leaching
Nano-pesticides: Provide targeted pest management with reduced environmental impact
Soil Moisture Nanosensors: Deliver real-time data for optimized irrigation schedules
Smart echnologies may reduce irrigation water usage by 25–30% while sustaining agricultural yields
Institutional Efforts
Saudi Arabia has made notable progress in developing nanotechnology research applied to water sustainability, though much of this work remains in the research or pilot phases Key institutions include:
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST): Leads research on advanced nanocomposite membranes for desalination, such as graphene oxide-based membranes and carbon honeycomb structures that enhance salt rejection and membrane durability.
King Saud University (KSU): Advances research on smart nanofiber membranes for water purification and heavy metal removal
NEOM Water Innovation Hub: Explores the integration of renewable energy-powered desalination and cutting-edge water monitoring technologies
These pioneering efforts highlight the Kingdom’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies into water management solutions aligned with Vision 2030 However, significant scale-up, regulatory development, and commercial deployment are still required to fully realize the potential of these innovations
Environmental and Regulatory Concerns
Key challenges include:
Nanoparticle ecotoxicity: Potential risks to aquatic ecosystems
Bioaccumulation: Long-term accumulation of nanoparticles in food webs
Regulatory gaps: Lack of comprehensive national frameworks governing nanoparticle lifecycle management.
Limited life-cycle data: Insufficient studies on degradation, stability, and environmental fate.
A "safe-by-design" approach incorporating toxicity assessments and life-cycle studies is essential to ensure safe deployment
Strategic Recommendations
To responsibly leverage nanotechnology, Saudi Arabia should prioritize:
1. Strengthening domestic and global research collaborations.
2 Developing national regulatory frameworks
3 Supporting commercial scale-up through public-private partnerships
4 Expanding nationwide monitoring networks
5 Promoting public awareness on nanotechnology applications
6. Fully integrating nanotechnology into Vision 2030's water sustainability objectives.
Conclusion
Nanotechnology holds transformative potential to address Saudi Arabia’s water scarcity while supporting Vision 2030’s sustainability goals With responsible regulation, scientific rigor, and environmental stewardship, the Kingdom can become a global model in the safe application of emerging technologies
References
Al-Sofi, M A , et al (2021) Challenges and future opportunities for sustainable water desalination in Saudi Arabia* Desalination, 509, 115715
General Authority for Statistics (2023) Water Statistics in Saudi Arabia: Annual Report 2023 Riyadh: GASTAT Publications
Hamed, O A (2015) Overview of hybrid desalination systems - current status and future prospects Desalination, 356, 286-300
Mir, M A , & Ashraf, M W (2022) The challenges and potential strategies of Saudi Arabia's water resources: A review in analytical way. Water-Energy Nexus, 5, 130-139
Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) (2022) Innovation in the water sector in Saudi Arabia Riyadh: MEWA
Ihsanullah, I , Abbas, A , & Al-Amer, A (2020) Heavy metal removal from aqueous solution by advanced carbon nanotubes: Critical review of adsorption applications Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 8(4), 103601
Nawaz, H , et al (2020) Performance enhancement of TiO2-based nanocomposite membrane for water desalination Journal of Membrane Science, 615, 118446
Zhou, Q , et al (2019) Graphene oxide incorporated forward osmosis membranes with enhanced desalination performance and chlorine resistance
Frontiers in Environmental Science, 7, 32
Kah, M , Tufenkji, N , & White, J C (2018) Nano-enabled strategies to enhance crop nutrition and protection Nature Nanotechnology, 13, 727–736 Vikesland, P J (2018) Nanosensors for water quality monitoring Nature Nanotechnology, 13, 651-660 Gehrke, I , Geiser, A , & Somborn-Schulz, A (2015) Innovations in nanotechnology for water treatment Nanotechnology, Science and Applications, 8, 1–17
Qu, X , Alvarez, P J , & Li, Q (2019) Applications of nanotechnology in water and wastewater treatment* Water Research, 47(12), 3931-3946
Ouda, O K (2014) Water demand versus supply in Saudi Arabia: Current and future challenges* International Journal of Water Resources Development, 37(3), 415-434
UNESCO (2021) The United Nations World Water Development Report 2021: Valuing Water* Paris: UNESCO Publishing KACST (2023) Water Domain Reports Riyadh: King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology
Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada (n d ) Smart water precision makes Alberta farms 30% more water efficient Retrieved June 14,
Sunrise of Sustainability: Exploring Solar Power Tower Technologies in Saudi Arabia
Introduction
In the era of climate change and dwindling fossil fuel resources, the transition to renewable energy sources has become a global imperative. Saudi Arabia, a nation historically dependent on oil exports, is taking proactive steps to diversify its energy mix and promote sustainable development Among the innovative solutions gaining traction is the use of solar power towers a cutting-edge technology that promises reliable, large-scale clean energy This article explores the concept of solar power towers, their significance, how they work, their advantages, challenges, and potential role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s sustainable future.
What Are Solar Power Towers?
Solar power towers, also called centralized solar thermal power plants, are large facilities designed to harness solar energy efficiently with thermal storage capabilities. Unlike photovoltaic (PV) solar panels that convert sunlight directly into electricity, solar power towers use concentrated solar energy to generate heat, which then produces electricity through traditional turbines
How Do They Operate?
The core components of a solar power tower system include numerous heliostats (mirrored surfaces) arranged in a vast field, a central receiver mounted atop a tall tower, and a thermal storage system
Heliostats: Thousands of specially designed mirrors track the sun’s movement throughout the day, reflecting sunlight toward the receiver.
Receiver: Situated at the tower’s apex, it absorbs the concentrated sunlight. The high heat is transferred to a heat transfer fluid often molten salt heated to temperatures exceeding 560°C
Thermal Storage: The heated molten salt can be stored in insulated tanks, retaining energy for hours or even overnight
Power Generation: When electricity demand peaks, the stored thermal energy is used to produce steam, which drives turbines connected to electrical generators.
This process allows solar thermal plants to generate power not only during sunny periods but also after sunset by utilizing stored heat
Author: Nabil Mohammed Alhfdi
I’m senior chemical engineering student , founder and president of Energy club and leader of Development committee of Ejad club passionate about renewable energy and sustainability and I hope in the future have a big part of transforming the kingdom to sustainable future
BENEFITS OF SOLAR POWER TOWERS
1. High Efficiency and Large Capacity
Solar power towers can produce significant amounts of electricity ranging from 50 MW in smaller plants to over 1 GW in large facilities This capacity makes them suitable for powering entire cities or industrial zones
2. Energy Storage and Reliability
One of their most valuable features is the ability to store thermal energy, providing a stable and reliable power supply, unlike PV systems that depend mainly on sunlight This stability is crucial for grid stability and energy security
3. Environmental Benefits
As a renewable resource, solar power towers significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Their widespread adoption can help Saudi Arabia meet its climate commitments under international agreements.
4. Economic Development
Building and maintaining these plants create jobs, promote technological innovation, and attract investments in renewable energy sectors supporting economic diversification goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030
SAUDI ARABIA’S SOLAR POWER TOWER PROJECTS
Rationale for Adoption
Saudi Arabia’s geographic location featuring high solar irradiance makes it an ideal candidate for solar thermal projects The country’s large deserts and open spaces provide ample land for establishing expansive solar tower fields
Existing and Planned Projects
The King Abdulaziz Solar Power Plant and other initiatives are exploring the use of solar thermal technology, including towers, to generate power at a large scale The plan is to develop projects that contribute to the Kingdom’s goal of producing 58 7 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030
Contributions to Sustainability Goals
By integrating solar towers into its energy system, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce its dependence on oil, meet domestic demand sustainably, and participate actively in the global effort to curb climate change
CHALLENGES FACING SOLAR POWER TOWERS
High Initial Investment
One of the main barriers is the cost Building large-scale solar thermal plants requires substantial capital for land preparation, mirror installation, tower construction, and thermal storage systems While operational costs tend to be lower, the upfront investment remains high
Technological Complexity
The engineering, thermal control, and maintenance of solar towers are more complex than PV systems. The need for specialized skills and ongoing technological advancements pose challenges
Water Use
Some solar thermal systems require water for cleaning mirrors and cooling processes In arid regions like Saudi Arabia, managing water resources sustainably is critical
Policy and Regulatory Framework
Developing conducive policies, incentives, and regulatory frameworks is vital to attract investments and ensure project success
FUTURE PERSPECTIVES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Technological Innovations
Ongoing research aims to enhance the efficiency and reduce costs of solar power towers. Innovations like hybrid systems integrating photovoltaic and thermal technologies can further improve performance.
International Collaboration
Saudi Arabia can benefit from partnerships with countries experienced in solar thermal technologies, such as Spain or the United States, accelerating learning curves and technology transfer
Decarbonizing Industries
Solar towers can supply clean energy to industries like desalination, petrochemicals, and mining, supporting broader economic diversification and sustainability efforts.
Addressing Challenges
Government policies supporting financing, research & development, and workforce training can mitigate the current challenges faced by solar thermal projects
CONCLUSION
Solar power towers represent a promising frontier in renewable energy, especially suited to sun-rich countries like Saudi Arabia Their ability to generate large-scale, reliable, and clean electricity positions them as a transformative solution for the Kingdom’s energy future While challenges exist, technological advancements and supportive policies can unlock their full potential, helping Saudi Arabia achieve its sustainability targets and set an example for the region As the world continues its shift toward renewable energy, investing in solar power towers could be a defining step for Saudi Arabia a nation leveraging its natural resources to build a sustainable and prosperous future.
The "Your Story Matters" section of the Saudi Sustainability magazine is a compelling platform committed to sharing the experiences and initiatives of individuals and organizations who are driving positive change towards a sustainable future in Saudi Arabia Serving as a powerful medium for inspiration and education, this section features in-depth interviews, success stories, and thought-provoking narratives that shed light on the innovative solutions and sustainable practices being implemented across various sectors in the Kingdom.
From stories of individuals leading impactful environmental projects to businesses adopting sustainable strategies, "Your Story Matters" showcases the diverse range of efforts taking place to address environmental, social, and economic challenges in Saudi Arabia. It aims to create a sense of pride and motivation, encouraging readers to contribute to the sustainability movement and find ways they too can positively impact their communities and the environment. Through this section, Saudi Sustainability magazine reinforces the idea that every individual's story matters and plays a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for the country
Share your story with us and showcase your sustainability efforts to the world.
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