Saudi Arabia's North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks Join UNESCO's Global Network for Sustainable Development
In a significant advancement for environmental conservation, UNESCO has officially recognized the North Riyadh Geopark and the Salma Geopark as part of its esteemed Global Geoparks Network. This development marks a pivotal moment for Saudi Arabia, underscoring its dedication to preserving geological heritage while promoting sustainable growth. Dr. Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Abdulkader, Chief Executive Officer of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), praised the announcement as a demonstration of Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to protecting its natural and historical assets.
The inclusion of these geoparks follows strict selection criteria set by UNESCO, which highlights an integrated management approach that balances conservation, education, and local community involvement. Dr. Al-Abdulkader attributed this achievement to the relentless support from Saudi Arabia's leadership in enhancing environmental initiatives and fostering sustainability. He pointed out that the NCVC aims to preserve the country's unique landscapes and geological sites in alignment with the sustainability goals outlined in Vision 2030.
Eng. Hussam bin Zuhair Al-Turki, Senior Director of the Saudi Geopark Initiative, emphasized that the addition of the North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks represents a moment of national pride for the kingdom. He asserted that this milestone not only reflects Saudi Arabia's dedication to maintaining its cultural and natural identity but also fortifies its standing as a global leader in geological heritage conservation and sustainable practices.
With this accolade, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to global environmental efforts. The newly recognized geosites are set to emerge as prominent destinations for both local and international tourists, offering them the chance to explore the kingdom's geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness around the need to preserve geological diversity.
Furthermore, beyond promoting geotourism, geoparks are pivotal for the sustainable management of natural resources as they intertwine geotourism with local economic development. This initiative is a product of collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and non-profit organizations, enhancing Saudi Arabia's contributions towards national and sustainable development objectives.
The North Riyadh Geopark, characterized by its unique geological formations and rich natural resources, alongside the Salma Geopark, known for its eclectic biomes and landscapes, are set to provide educational experiences and recreational opportunities that highlight the importance of geological conservation. With support from local communities and proactive management strategies, these parks are expected to become exemplary models of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
In conclusion, the inclusion of the North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks into UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network is not just recognition; it is a responsibility embraced by Saudi Arabia as it challenges itself to merge conservation with development and serve as a beacon of sustainable practices in the region. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to set a powerful precedent for environmental conservation and sustainable development in the Middle East, inspiring similar efforts worldwide.