#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #UNCCD #Dust Storms

New Initiative for Monitoring Sand and Dust Storms

In a significant move during the COP16 conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of an international initiative focused on monitoring sand and dust storms. This program aims to bolster the global early warning system for such events, which have increasingly detrimental impacts on the environment and human health. The initiative is part of a broader agenda to enhance global resiliency against challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.

Context of the Initiative

The announcement, made during Resilience Day at the COP16, comes amid concerns that approximately two billion tons of sand and dust are transmitted into the atmosphere annually. This massive figure underscores the need for better monitoring and predictive capabilities. Indeed, estimates suggest that human activities contribute to over 25% of these emissions.

The initiative is set to expand existing capacities overseen by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), as it connects four global nodes including existing centers in Beijing, Barcelona, and Barbados. The Saudi Arabia center, based in Jeddah, is poised to play a critical role in this enhanced monitoring network, contributing vital data and forecasts.

Technological Advancements

Jumaan Al-Qahtani, the Director of the Regional Warning, Advisory, and Assessment Node for Sand and Dust Storms, revealed that three advanced prediction models have been successfully developed and validated for use in the region. These models represent a leap forward in forecasting the occurrence and severity of dust storms, enabling timely warnings and preparedness measures.

Al-Qahtani emphasized the strong commitment of Saudi Arabia to improve capabilities not only domestically but also internationally, particularly in countries that lack such sophisticated systems. To support this, Saudi Arabia has pledged $10 million over the next five years to fund these initiatives.

Call for Global Support

Saudi Arabia's initiative is not merely addressing local issues; it's a call for a collaborative effort from other nations and UN organizations to enhance global preparedness for dust storms. The nation invites other stakeholders in the public and private sectors to lend support to this critical cause, ensuring that early warning systems are effective and beneficial in the most affected areas.

Dr. Osama Faqeeha, the Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, stressed that with over 1.8 billion people susceptible to the impacts of drought, addressing these issues must be a global priority. Saudi Arabia is taking steps to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach concerning drought resilience.

Financial Strategies and Global Partnerships

At the same time, the World Bank announced its contribution of $24 billion in grants aimed at securing a total of $100 billion in funding for climate resilience. These funds will support various initiatives, including agricultural resilience and infrastructural improvements in 78 of the most vulnerable countries.

The COP16 conference has mobilized government and non-government entities to form international alliances that aim to restore land and bolster resilience against the adverse effects of climate change, land degradation, and desertification.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia's initiative to enhance monitoring of sand and dust storms is a vital step in the global fight against environmental challenges. By fostering international cooperation and advancing technological capabilities, the country sets a precedent for collective action toward a sustainable future.