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Writer's pictureSAUDI IMO

KSA hosting MENA Climate Week and announcements.




The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted the MENA Climate Week 2023 in Riyadh ahead of the COP28 from the 8th to the-12th of October, organized by the Ministry of Energy and the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Changes. The focus of the week was on transformation, inclusion, and solutions, aiming to bring together policymakers, practitioners, businesses, and civil society to share climate solutions and take concrete action towards achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. This showcased the determination of the Kingdom Saudi Arabia to address the issue of climate change and promote sustainable practices in the maritime sector.


The event featured four tracks, each focused on specific themes: energy systems and industry, cities and infrastructure, land and water, and societies and economies. The conference hosted various international and regional events, meetings, exhibitions, and cultural activities, attracting ministers, senior officials, businesspeople, and media figures from around the world.


In line with the Kingdom Vision 2030, MAWANI, the Saudi Ports Authority, launched a notable green initiative which aims to automate operations in the country's ports. This innovative approach adopts clean and renewable energy, along with cutting-edge technology, to preserve the marine environment. Through collaboration, all parties involved will accelerate the implementation of 5G technology in logistics and operations, contributing to the automation of port processes which will allow for a more streamlined and effective process. The kingdom is working to build Saudi Arabia into a global logistics hub whilst securing the sustainability of the marine environment for the future.


The Kingdom also made a significant commitment to address climate change by investing $2.5 billion to combat desertification and reduce carbon emissions through afforestation. The country aims to plant up to 50 billion trees in the Middle East, contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.


This is backed up by their pledge to achieve the Sustainable Green Initiative (SGI) target of protecting 30% of its land and sea by 2030. Additionally, the country plans to plant over 600 million trees by the same year, further increasing its initial goal of 450 million trees. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.


The event highlighted the importance of renewable energy, with a focus on green hydrogen. Saudi Arabia is home to one of the world's largest green hydrogen plants, located in NEOM, a $500 billion giga-project. Green hydrogen is considered a key energy source for reducing harmful emissions. By investing in renewable energy, afforestation, and the protection of natural resources, Saudi Arabia is taking concrete steps towards achieving its goal of net-zero emissions by 2060.


As the conference unfolds, it serves as a catalyst for transformation and a platform for showcasing innovative solutions and initiatives in fight against climate change. This demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s dedication to overcoming barriers, leveraging mechanisms and regulatory frameworks and fostering a sustainable future for all both within the IMO and as a global example.

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