A strategic step towards a green future
In a significant environmental achievement, the National Afforestation Program has revealed the complete plant identity of the Al-Jawf region, presenting a comprehensive scientific roadmap that includes 19 families and 27 species of native plants best suited for cultivation and propagation. This step comes as part of the comprehensive national movement aimed at developing vegetation cover and combating desertification, and is directly aligned with the ambitious goals of the "Saudi Green Initiative" and the pillars of "Vision 2030," which places environmental sustainability at the heart of its priorities.
General context and national importance
This study is particularly important given the environmental challenges facing the Kingdom and the entire region, from water scarcity to land degradation and desertification. The Al-Jawf region, with its rich agricultural history and diverse geography, serves as a prime example of these challenges and opportunities. Identifying native plant species capable of surviving and thriving in the region's harsh climatic conditions is not only a scientific achievement but also fundamental to the long-term success of afforestation projects. Instead of relying on introduced species that may consume large quantities of water and fail to adapt, the program focuses on local treasures that are integral to the ecological balance, ensuring the sustainability of natural resources and minimizing water and financial waste.
Unique biodiversity and anticipated impact
Field surveys conducted by the program revealed a remarkable biodiversity in Al-Jawf, where vegetation is distributed across diverse terrains, including vast sand dunes, plains, valleys, plateaus, and even challenging environments like salt flats. The approved list includes a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and grasses, led by native species such as *Acacia tortilis*, *Ghadha*, *Ramth*, *Arfaj*, and wild jujube. This diversity belongs to several scientific families, most notably the legumes, Amaranthaceae, Rosaceae, and Poaceae, reflecting the resilience of the region's ecosystem.
This plant map is expected to have a multifaceted positive impact. Locally, it will contribute to restoring ecological balance, improving air quality, providing natural habitats for wildlife, and raising public awareness of the importance of preserving native plants. Nationally, it directly supports the Saudi Green Initiative's goal of planting 10 billion trees and provides a model that can be replicated in other regions of the Kingdom. Internationally, this effort reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leader in adopting sustainable and innovative solutions to address climate change and the global challenges of desertification.
