Urgent Alarms Raised by Saudi Presidency on Global Dryland Expansion at COP16
Understanding the Unfolding Crisis of Global Drylands
In an alarming development highlighted during the UNCCD's COP16 in Riyadh, the Saudi presidency issued a stark warning about the troubling expansion of drylands worldwide. This situation not only threatens ecosystems but also exacerbates many socio-economic challenges faced by affected populations.
On December 12, 2024, as part of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Day, delegates from various nations convened to explore innovative solutions aimed at combating land degradation, desertification, and drought. The agenda included discussions on satellite monitoring of soil degradation and the significant role of startups in enhancing soil restoration and drought resilience. This collective effort seeks to address the pressing environmental issues plaguing many regions, particularly those crippled by the effects of climate change.
Launch of the International Water Research Center
Amidst these discussions, a groundbreaking initiative was announced: the launch of an International Water Research Center. This collaborative effort, formed between the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), aims to redefine sustainable water management practices. The center is set to focus on innovative research and sustainable practices essential for addressing water scarcity, a crucial issue in dryland regions.
Innovative Partnerships for Soil Quality
Moreover, the COP16 witnessed the unveiling of a research and innovation partnership between Saudi Arabia’s National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program, KAUST, and the Estifamah corporation. This partnership is geared toward accelerating research efforts targeting soil quality improvements, which are pivotal for agricultural productivity in drylands.
Additionally, five more innovative projects with a combined research budget exceeding 25 million dollars were introduced under a program aimed at enhancing the date and palm industry. This initiative seeks to ensure long-term agricultural and economic sustainability in a region that heavily relies on these crops.
High-Level Dialogues on Land Rehabilitation
Throughout COP16, numerous high-level dialogues took place, focusing on the rehabilitation of lands through scientific advancements and terrestrial intelligence. Munir Eldesouki, the Acting President of the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, stressed the critical point of uniting scientific advancements with actionable strategies, declaring, “Science and technology are not mere tools; they are our primary allies in securing a sustainable future.”
The discussions included inputs from civil society organizations on translating scientific data into actionable policies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders for effective environmental management.
Urgent Call to Action
On the same day, the UNCCD released a concerning report detailing the expansion of arid zones globally. The study revealed that more than three-quarters of the planet's land has experienced drier climates over the last three decades, with a doubling of the population living in arid areas, now totaling 2.3 billion people by 2020.
Osama Faqeeha, the Vice Minister of Environment and adviser to the COP16 presidency, underscored the gravity of the findings: “The extension of arid zones is a global trend that warrants urgent action. This report should serve as a wake-up call for the international community to take decisive and sustainable measures against soil degradation and desertification.” He also highlighted how innovation plays a key role in improving resource efficiency, essential for reducing pressures on vital resources such as water and energy.
Conclusion: A Call for Global Cooperation
As COP16 unfolds in Riyadh from December 2-13, 2024, the themes of unity, innovation, and responsibility resonate loudly. Under the title “Our Land. Our Future,” the conference marks the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD, aiming to stimulate multilateral action on pressing issues such as drought resilience and land use policies. The outcomes of this conference could very well dictate the future strategies for sustainability in drylands and beyond, emphasizing the urgent need for international cooperation in tackling climate-related challenges.