Sustainability initiatives

King Abdulaziz University Contributes to the Implementation of the Initiative for Preserving Trees and Living Plants in the Areas of Informal Settlement Clearance in Jeddah Governorate.

In the context of its support of environmental sustainability, and its scientific and social role, King Abdulaziz University participated in implementing the initiative to conserve trees and living plants in the areas of undergoing informal settlement clearance in Jeddah Governorate, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the Jeddah Municipality, The initiative was implemented to protect vegetation cover and biodiversity in areas affected by urban development projects.The university contributed through a specialized scientific team led by Dr. Faten bint Zubair Falemban, Advisor to the Deanship of Scientific Research and a specialist in the taxonomy of Arabian Peninsula flora, and Eng. Turki Safar Al-Otaibi from the Projects Agency. The team conducted field surveys, scientifically identified and classified plant species, and documented their environmental condition and geographical locations. The initiative resulted in the identification of 16 plant species, comprising a total of 2,436 trees and plants. A comprehensive scientific report was prepared, detailing the species, their numbers, estimated ages, root depths, geographical locations, and recommendations for their conservation and continued growth.The initiative aligns with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, contributing to enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality, combating desertification, and enhancing quality of life. It also exemplifies effective collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies, supporting several Sustainable Development Goals, notably Climate Action (Goal 13), Life on Land (Goal 15), and Partnerships for the Goals (Goal 17).