In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to its ambitious environmental goals, the Jazan branch of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance launched a unique volunteer initiative entitled "Tree Planting Season." This initiative, undertaken in cooperation with the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification, aims to plant trees in the areas surrounding 40 mosques and prayer halls in Jazan city and the governorates of Sabya, Ahad Al Masarihah, and Samtah.
Background of the initiative and its connection to national trends
This initiative cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader national context. It falls within the framework of major environmental initiatives launched by the Kingdom, most notably the "Saudi Green Initiative" and "Vision 2030." These national strategies aim to rehabilitate degraded lands, increase vegetation cover, combat desertification, and improve the quality of life for citizens and residents. Choosing mosques as the starting point for such activities lends them a spiritual and cultural dimension, and reinforces the importance of environmental conservation as an inherent Islamic and human value, as planting trees in Islam is considered a continuous act of charity.
Details of the initiative and its societal impact
The initiative witnessed broad community participation, with 1,152 volunteers contributing over 5,700 volunteer hours. This significant momentum reflects the growing environmental awareness among community members and their desire to actively contribute to achieving environmental goals. The initiative's objectives extended beyond simply planting trees; they encompassed instilling the concepts of social responsibility, promoting a culture of volunteerism, and strengthening community bonds through collaborative efforts toward a noble objective.
Environmental importance and expected impact
Locally, the initiative is expected to improve the urban landscape around mosques and provide green spaces that will help moderate temperatures, especially in a hot climate like Jazan. Trees also purify the air and reduce pollution, positively impacting public health. Nationally, such local initiatives form the building blocks for achieving the larger goal of planting billions of trees across the Kingdom. They represent a practical model for translating grand strategic plans into tangible realities on the ground, with the active participation of government agencies and civil society.
