In this episode of the “Socrates” podcast, important environmental topics related to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are discussed, where host Omar Al-Jaraysee hosts engineer Mansour Al-Mashaiti, Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture. The guest talks about the importance of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in the lives of citizens, as it directly contributes to providing clean air, water, and food. The challenges facing the three sectors related to environment, water, and agriculture are also addressed, as well as how to manage these challenges.
The dialogue also reviews the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in achieving Vision 2030, which aims to achieve sustainable development in all fields. Engineer Al-Mashaiti discusses the programs and initiatives that have been implemented to combat desertification and increase vegetation cover, and how to integrate the private sector into these efforts. Changes that have occurred in the ministry since its restructuring in 2016 and how this has contributed to improving performance efficiency and increasing environmental sustainability are also discussed.
The episode also touches on transformations in the water sector, discussing water consumption and reuse, and the challenges this sector faces in light of water scarcity. Agricultural activities and agricultural subsidies directed to farmers are also discussed, focusing on the importance of improving productivity and supporting small farmers.
The dialogue is rich with information and facts, reflecting the significant efforts made by the state to achieve environmental and developmental goals. This episode highlights how collective work between government entities and the private sector can effectively contribute to achieving true environmental sustainability, promising a better future for generations to come.
The Importance of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is considered a country with great ecological diversity, despite the stereotype that may portray it as a desert nation. About 70% of its land includes green areas and pastures, which reflects the importance of the environment in the lives of citizens. Discussing environment, water, and agriculture reveals how connected these sectors are to people’s daily lives in terms of the air they breathe, the water they drink, and the food they consume. Therefore, these sectors form an essential part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to improve the quality of life and enhance sustainability.
In recent years, structural changes have been introduced in the ministries concerned with environment, water, and agriculture, which were merged to be under one umbrella, facilitating coordination among these various sectors. This merger helps achieve sustainable goals through improved management of natural resources, such as water, providing support to farmers, and enhancing food security.
Additionally, the challenges facing these sectors are manifold, including the degradation of vegetation cover and water scarcity. Therefore, clear strategies must be in place to address these challenges, such as developing vegetation cover, combating desertification, and improving irrigation and agricultural techniques.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Water Sector
The water sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia faces many challenges, the most prominent of which is water scarcity, as most of the consumed water comes from non-renewable sources. However, the Kingdom is taking diligent steps to enhance water use efficiency, including launching national programs to rationalize water consumption and increase the percentage of reused treated water. In 2015, only about 17% of treated water was reused, indicating significant opportunities to expand this percentage.
Moreover, infrastructure in this sector has been strengthened through the establishment of specialized companies for water treatment and distribution, which helps improve the quality of services provided to citizens. This also requires investments in new technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce water loss.
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There should be collaboration between the public and private sectors to build water projects and improve networks. This collaboration can facilitate the development of new technologies in water treatment and improve their efficiency, leading to the achievement of the Vision 2030 goals.
The Role of Agriculture and the Future of Food Security
Agriculture is an integral part of life in the Kingdom and plays a vital role in achieving food security. Agriculture in Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges, including the scarcity of arable land, along with challenges related to water management. However, the Kingdom is investing in the development of modern agricultural technologies, relying on technology and scientific research to improve productivity.
The Kingdom seeks to enhance sustainable agriculture by supporting farmers and providing financial assistance for agriculture. It is also important to effectively direct these aids so that they are used to improve productivity, not just to cover costs. The government should also promote training programs for farmers to familiarize them with the latest agricultural methods and practices.
There is also a trend towards developing organic agriculture and sustainability, which enhances the Kingdom’s capacity to achieve food security and meet its growing food needs. By focusing on small and medium agricultural projects, new job opportunities can be created and living standards can be improved in rural areas.
Future Trends and Green Initiatives
Saudi Arabia aims to achieve ambitious environmental goals through Vision 2030, which includes increasing greenery and planting ten billion trees. This reflects the trend towards sustainability and environmental preservation, contributing to improving the quality of life for citizens.
Government initiatives also include efforts to preserve wildlife and water, through the establishment of national centers specialized in this field. In addition, there is a focus on waste management and improving recycling strategies, which helps reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
The vision revolves around global competition and leadership in sustainable development fields, which requires integration among all stakeholders, from the private sector to civil society. This transformation also requires a new culture that encourages innovation and community participation, contributing to building a healthy and sustainable environment.
Sustainable Rural Development Program
The Sustainable Rural Development Program is one of the government efforts aimed at improving living conditions in rural areas of Saudi Arabia. The program focuses on achieving sustainable agricultural development, which contributes to enhancing the local economy and providing job opportunities for farmers in the countryside. The main goal is to improve farmers’ income and empower them to stay in their regions instead of migrating to cities in search of job opportunities. Since the program’s launch in October of last year, more than 3,000 farmers have effectively benefited from it, highlighting the initiative’s importance in supporting the agricultural sector.
The program spans six years, aiming to increase local agricultural production in several areas, such as honey, coffee, and damask rose cultivation, with the government seeking to increase the cultivation of 500 million damask roses to 2 billion roses by the end of the program. This type of targeted agriculture represents an important step towards achieving food security and enhancing the country’s ability to meet its agricultural product needs locally.
Achieving Sustainability in Agriculture
Achieving sustainability in agriculture is a key focus of government efforts, as work is being done to transform traditional agriculture into modern agriculture that relies on advanced technologies. These technologies include vertical farming and hydroponics, which are characterized by their efficiency in water resource usage. The program supports modern farming techniques by up to 60% of the cost, motivating farmers to adopt these new methods.
One successful example in this field is the experience of the General Authority for Irrigation in Al-Ahsa, where techniques for reusing water in agriculture have been implemented. This experiment, which was initially limited, proved successful and led the authority to become an institution dedicated to expanding its services to include all regions, contributing to enhancing water security in the Kingdom.
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Water Resources
The development of water resources is one of the most important issues in Arab societies, especially in the Kingdom that suffers from a shortage of freshwater. The strategies employed include improving the use of surface and groundwater, in addition to enhancing programs for the reuse of wastewater. These efforts represent part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at achieving a balance between water demand and supply.
One successful initiative is the expansion of the treated water network, which has reached over 52% of the water infrastructure in the Kingdom. This indicates significant progress in this area, as previous figures were much lower. The program aims to increase this percentage to meet the needs of consumers and farmers alike, reflecting the importance of strategic planning in water resource management.
Investment in the Agricultural Sector
Investment in the agricultural sector is considered one of the essential pillars for achieving food security in the Kingdom. The “Salk” Company represents one of the new initiatives aimed at securing food supplies through external investments in agriculture. The company seeks to acquire farms in other countries to ensure sustainable supplies of food products, thereby reducing reliance on imports.
The government also aims to encourage the private sector to enter into agriculture, thus enhancing its ability to achieve national goals of increasing local production and reducing the food gap. This trend empowers local farmers to benefit from technological advancements and increase production efficiency, which positively reflects on the national economy.
Environmental Challenges in the Agricultural Sector
Environmental challenges are significant issues facing the agricultural sector, as agriculture is affected by the scarcity of water resources and desertification. The Kingdom faces substantial challenges in preserving biodiversity, with estimates indicating that 111 species of animals are threatened with extinction. This situation necessitates effective strategies for environmental conservation and improving the quality of life by protecting natural resources.
The government strives to overcome these challenges through comprehensive programs that include the rehabilitation of vegetation cover and tree planting, which contribute to improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions. Initiatives such as “Green Riyadh” are part of these efforts, where trees are planted in urban areas to achieve significant environmental and climatic benefits.
Future Initiatives and National Aspirations
The Kingdom aspires to achieve significant ambitions in the fields of environment and agriculture through Saudi Vision 2030. This vision includes ambitious goals to increase the percentage of protected areas and achieve sustainability in various sectors. The program aims to plant 457 million trees by 2030, reflecting the national commitment to achieving sustainable development.
In addition, the Kingdom aims to develop its agricultural infrastructure through partnerships with the private sector, thereby enhancing its capacity to address environmental challenges and ensuring resource sustainability. This approach represents an important step towards achieving national goals and reflects the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and improving the living conditions of farmers.
The Importance of the Water Sector in Economic Development
The water sector is an essential part of economic development in any country. It takes the lion’s share of government investments, exceeding 50% of the total allocated to the private sector. Water is a vital factor that affects various economic activities, from agriculture to industry and energy generation. Focusing on improving water resource management reflects the importance of shifting priorities from mere production to transport and reuse, thus helping to enhance environmental sustainability and ensuring water availability for future generations.
Successful efforts have been implemented in this area, such as improving the infrastructure for transport and treated water. Strategic goals have been set for sustainable growth, such as reaching 65% water treatment by 2025. However, it requires time and effort to achieve these goals. For instance, 58% of the target has been achieved, indicating that more work is needed to meet the specified objectives. Investing in water infrastructure enhances the ability to meet the growing demand for water, especially in light of challenges posed by climate change and population growth.
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the strategies being implemented today are intelligent and innovative investment initiatives, focusing on infrastructure funds that may help achieve desired goals. It is essential for the government to continue investing in this sector to ensure water sustainability and meet citizens’ needs. Through these strategies, economic growth is supported, and necessary water resources for all uses are secured.
Improving Water Use Efficiency
Improving water use efficiency is a critical point in any water management strategy. The effective reuse of treated wastewater is a key part of the efforts being made. For example, the goal is to utilize 7 million cubic meters of treated water to enhance use efficiency. Achieving these figures requires the implementation of new technologies and enhancing research and development in this field.
There is also a focus on developing smart systems for monitoring water use and analyzing related data. Artificial intelligence is utilized to provide precise agricultural advice that helps farmers make informed decisions. This digital transformation is essential for reducing water losses and improving agricultural production efficiency. By employing these technologies, higher levels of production can be achieved while preserving water resources.
Additionally, there is significant importance in educating and raising community awareness about how to use water more efficiently. Encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural techniques and conservation practices can significantly contribute to reducing water consumption. The interaction between the government, farmers, and civil society can help build a sustainable system for water resource management, supporting both economic and environmental goals.
Food Security and Its Role in Sustainable Development
Food security is one of the most prominent challenges facing countries today, closely linked to water resource management. Achieving sustainability in food production requires a balance between food production and available water resources. The government is working on strategies aimed at reducing food wastage, which reaches 33%, representing a significant food crisis. The government aims to reduce this number to 15% in the future, with a greater ambition to reach 10%.
The strategies being implemented include improving agricultural production efficiency and enhancing the ministry’s role in supporting farmers. By doing so, food security is improved, and economic development is enhanced. Focus is placed on increasing agricultural productivity through the use of smart agricultural techniques and technological innovations. This approach helps achieve sustainability and enhances countries’ ability to meet the growing population’s needs.
The food security committee in the country is a central piece of these strategies. It monitors prices and availability in markets and works to ensure food supply stability. Having a clear action plan and cooperation between various entities are essential for enhancing food security efficiency. It is important to focus on producing crops that fit local conditions and meet market needs, contributing to achieving economic and social sustainability.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Agricultural Sector
The agricultural sector faces multiple challenges related to sustainability and production efficiency. One of the most prominent challenges is the need to increase crop productivity while preserving water resources. Sustainable agriculture is a crucial aspect of achieving these goals. This is achieved through the development of modern agricultural technologies and encouraging farmers to adopt innovative farming methods, thereby enhancing agriculture’s ability to adapt to climate changes.
There is also a need to raise awareness among farmers about the importance of sustainability and how to improve their production. By providing training programs and educational courses, farmers can benefit from the latest trends and agricultural techniques. Agricultural cooperatives are also important tools that can contribute to achieving these goals, providing support and assistance to farmers in marketing their products and improving their incomes.
The challenges related to prices and production costs pose a barrier for many farmers. Therefore, it is important for the government to continue supporting farmers by providing loans and financial assistance that enhance their ability to invest in new technologies. This can contribute to improving productivity and creating new job opportunities in the agricultural sector, which supports the national economy and enhances the sustainability of this vital sector.
Camp Licenses and Community Needs
The issue of camp licenses is a vital topic that touches upon community needs, as citizens face challenges related to delays in issuing these licenses. In recent years, the number of people engaging in outdoor activities has increased, necessitating the organization of these activities in a way that preserves the environment and ensures the safety of participants. There have been numerous calls from local communities to expedite the procedures related to licenses, especially with the winter season approaching when activities and gatherings in camps increase. This delay can negatively impact preparations and arrangements, requiring a swift response from the relevant authorities to meet these needs.
During the discussion, several proposals were raised to improve the use of available resources in camps, such as how to utilize used water from ablution and washing for planting parts of the camps. This idea aims to promote sustainability and effective resource use, contributing to raising environmental awareness among participants. Providing innovative solutions can have a significant impact on how camps are managed better.
Additionally, the importance of having clear regulations to ensure the optimal use of resources, such as water and vegetation cover, was highlighted. Specialized centers for vegetation growth exist, which helps maintain biodiversity and develop the local environment. It is important for citizens to recognize their role in supporting these initiatives by adhering to the regulations set by the competent authorities.
Tree Logging: Challenges and Regulations
The issue of logging is an important environmental concern that requires the attention of the community and responsible authorities. The topic of logging was discussed, emphasizing the need for strict regulation to avoid reckless consumption of natural resources. Trees play a vital role in maintaining the environment; however, random logging threatens this ecological balance. Permits for logging have been issued, allowing citizens to collect specific amounts of wood, but this must be accompanied by sufficient awareness of how to use sustainable alternatives.
The importance of having strict laws to prevent illegal logging was discussed, with this activity being monitored by the relevant security authorities. In this context, the support of the Agricultural Development Fund for importing alternatives was highlighted, reflecting the government’s efforts to promote sustainability. These initiatives indicate the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and finding a balance between the needs of citizens and respect for natural resources.
When it comes to managing natural resources, raising environmental awareness is a vital step. Everyone must realize that preserving the environment is a collective responsibility that requires everyone’s cooperation. By spreading awareness about the importance of trees and preserving them, the community can contribute to making the environment more sustainable.
Direct Support for Livestock Farmers and the Need for Price Improvement
The discussion addressed the issues faced by livestock farmers and their relationship with the high prices of fodder, which affects the sustainability of their businesses. The direct support provided by the government to livestock farmers who own a specific number of animals was highlighted, where support reaches 8 riyals per head. These initiatives aim to alleviate the economic burden on farmers and encourage them to continue their work. However, the stable economic situation requires further efforts to improve prices and ensure the sustainability of the industry.
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The discussion on the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in feed production contributes to reducing reliance on imports. This requires the development of sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring quality in production. It was also pointed out the necessity of cooperation between governments and livestock breeders to enhance this vital sector. With the right support and resources, the situation of breeders can improve, increasing their competitiveness.
Cattle are an essential part of local culture and economy, so improving working conditions and effective support can have a positive impact on the community as a whole. Coordination among various ministries and stakeholders contributes to achieving developmental goals and strengthens the national economy.
Cloud Seeding: Experiences and Future Initiatives
The topic of cloud seeding is an interesting and important subject in light of changing climatic conditions. Historical experiments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding cloud seeding have been discussed, where workshops and initiatives were held to promote this phenomenon. The government strongly supports such programs, as plans are being made to initiate new cloud seeding experiments in the relevant areas. This type of project is not only to meet agricultural needs but also to improve the water situation in the country.
Cloud seeding is not merely a means to increase rainfall but can have positive effects on the ecosystem as a whole. By improving climatic conditions, cloud seeding can enhance crop production and reduce the impact of drought. This requires effective coordination between various governmental and private entities.
The challenges facing future projects include the need for continuous research and technological development. Employing modern techniques in cloud seeding will play a significant role in improving outcomes. Additionally, it is essential to involve the local community in these initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation. Leveraging previous experiences and learning from them can contribute to achieving better positive results in the future.
Strategic Planning and the Future: A Long-term Vision
The vision of strategic planning is one of the essential elements for achieving developmental goals. The importance of long-term planning and the associated challenges have been addressed in the discussion. Planning is not just an administrative procedure; it is a vision for a better future. In this context, strategic planning is considered a key tool for achieving sustainable development and improving quality of life.
There has been an emphasis on the necessity of setting clear, attainable goals, along with the need to monitor performance periodically. Strategic planning requires stakeholders to be flexible and able to adapt to global and local changes. Through this flexibility, countries can respond better to challenges and achieve success in meeting their objectives.
The move towards leadership in strategic planning is essential in a rapidly changing world. By raising awareness of the importance of planning and innovation, the community can contribute to achieving developmental goals. A clear vision for a sustainable future enhances the community’s ability to grow and evolve.
It was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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