#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #UNCCD COP16 #soil degradation #environmental action

The Significance of UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh

The upcoming UNCCD COP16, set to occur in Riyadh from December 2 to 13, 2024, is being planned as a pivotal moment for global dialogue on pressing environmental issues. With the conference themed, "Our Earth. Our Future," it marks the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). For the first time, this conference is expected to adopt a dual approach, focusing on both negotiation tracks and action plans aimed at addressing critical challenges such as land degradation and desertification.

A Dual Approach

The dual approach outlined for COP16 establishes a framework for not only negotiating but also implementing tangible solutions to the environmental crises we face today. The negotiation segment will gear towards significant political statements and decisions from member nations, all aimed at enhancing global resilience against land degradation and drought. Meanwhile, the action program will spotlight innovative initiatives and provide a platform for sharing best practices across various pivotal thematic areas crucial for land restoration and drought resilience.

High-Level Ministerial Dialogues

Scheduled for December 2 and 3, the high-level dialogues at COP16 will encompass important discussions surrounding drought resilience, funding mechanisms, and the ramifications of land degradation on forced migration, security, and overall prosperity. These dialogues represent a critical opportunity for leaders in the global arena to engage deeply on these issues and collaborate towards actionable multilateral efforts. Osama Faqeeha, the Deputy Minister of Environment for Saudi Arabia, emphasizes the urgency of these discussions, noting that the way we manage our land directly affects food security, climate stability, and even conflict and migration patterns.

Thematic Days and Urgent Actions

Additionally, the COP16 will showcase various thematic days, further detailing discussions and outcomes relevant to targeted areas of focus such as:

• - December 4: Earth Day
• - December 5: Agri-Food Systems Day
• - December 6: Governance Day
• - December 7: Peoples Day
• - December 9: Science, Technology, and Innovation Day
• - December 10: Resilience Day
• - December 11: Finance Day

The scale of soil degradation is alarming, affecting approximately 40% of Earth's surface and threatening the livelihoods of over 3.2 billion people worldwide. As per UNCCD data, around 100 million hectares degrade every year while the incidence of drought has amplified by almost a third since 2000. Thus, COP16 must prioritize securing funding from both public and private sectors to enable protective measures against these deteriorating conditions.

Looking Ahead

With the international community at a critical juncture, the UNCCD COP16 is set to play a defining role in reshaping how nations address and combat land degradation and desertification. Through active engagement and robust dialogue, the conference is aimed toward fostering a collective commitment to restore degraded lands and enhance resilience against drought, ensuring a sustainable future for both our ecosystems and communities.

For further information or to participate in the green zone debates, interested parties are encouraged to explore the official UNCCD COP16 website for registration details.

With the urgency of the issues at hand and the innovative approaches being set forth, COP16 signals a hopeful step toward global environmental rejuvenation and resilience.