Official government website of the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 
14
14. Life below water
Related Content
SDG 14: LIFE BELOW WATER
Safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s Marine Ecosystems: Qassim University’s Endeavors in Tackling Marine Pollution and Promoting SDG 14
Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for present and future generations. This essay delves into Saudi Arabia’s commitment to SDG 14, particularly in addressing marine pollution, and highlights Qassim University’s efforts in safeguarding aquatic ecosystems through research, education, and community engagement.
SDG 14 in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, with its extensive coastline along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, recognizes the ecological and economic importance of marine ecosystems. The country has undertaken various initiatives to support SDG 14:
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs):
Saudi Arabia has designated several Marine Protected Areas to conserve biodiversity and protect sensitive marine habitats. These areas help in safeguarding marine life and promoting sustainable fishing practices. - Reducing plastic pollution: Reducing Plastic Pollution: The nation has implemented measures to reduce plastic pollution, such as banning single-use plastics and promoting recycling. These actions contribute to curbing the flow of plastics into marine environments.
- Promoting Sustainable Fishing:
Saudi Arabia has introduced regulations to ensure the sustainability of fisheries, such as setting fishing quotas and implementing closed seasons to allow fish stocks to replenish. - Coral Reef Conservation
Given the significance of coral reefs, Saudi Arabia has initiated projects to monitor and conserve these delicate ecosystems. Coral restoration efforts contribute to preserving biodiversity and maintaining healthy marine environments.
Qassim University Initiatives
Qassim University recognizes its role in tackling marine pollution and promoting healthy aquatic ecosystems:
- Research and innovation:
The university conducts research on marine pollution, plastic waste, and its impact on marine life. Through innovative solutions, such as biodegradable materials and waste management techniques, Qassim University contributes to reducing pollution in aquatic environments. - Curriculum Integration:
Qassim University incorporates marine conservation topics into its curriculum across disciplines. By educating students about the importance of marine ecosystems and the threats they face, the university cultivates a generation of environmentally conscious citizens. - Community Engagement:
The university collaborates with local communities to raise awareness about marine pollution and conservation. Through workshops, seminars, and outreach programs, Qassim University empowers communities to take action and adopt sustainable practices. - Technology for Monitoring:
Qassim University employs technology such as drones and underwater sensors to monitor marine environments. This data-driven approach aids in identifying pollution sources and understanding the state of aquatic ecosystems. - Partnerships and Advocacy:
The university collaborates with governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, and industry stakeholders to advocate for marine conservation policies and solutions. These partnerships amplify the impact of Qassim University’s initiatives.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While Saudi Arabia and Qassim University make strides in addressing marine pollution, challenges such as inadequate waste management and climate change impacts remain. However, by fostering collaborations, raising awareness, and advancing research, these challenges can be effectively addressed.
Preserving life below water is essential for a sustainable future. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to SDG 14 exemplifies its dedication to protecting its marine ecosystems. Qassim University’s multifaceted approach, encompassing research, education, and community engagement, demonstrates the crucial role that educational institutions play in promoting marine conservation. Through their collective efforts, Saudi Arabia and Qassim University pave the way for cleaner oceans, healthier marine life, and a more sustainable world for current and future generations.
Saudi Arabia commits to intensify efforts to combat marine pollution: Minister
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen its efforts to mitigate marine pollution and address environmental concerns facing the region, the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture said at a conference in Egypt on Thursday. During the 20th session of the Regional Commission for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli said that these environmental efforts form an important part of the Kingdom's initiatives focused on enhancing biodiversity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Kingdom has also been active in combating land degradation and improving the quality of life within the region and beyond.
Al-Fadhli said at the event held in Hurghada, Egypt: "The Kingdom has initiated several prominent programs. Most notably, the Green Middle East Initiative, which has succeeded in developing a comprehensive roadmap aimed at preserving the environment and combating climate change." The minister also spoke of the Kingdom's willingness to cooperate with international bodies to advance the global environmental agenda. "At the international level, the Kingdom has also joined the World Ocean Consortium and the Alliance to Eliminate Plastic Waste in the Oceans," he added. "The Kingdom has established a non-profit foundation dedicated to the exploration and study of seas and oceans, as well as a regional center for sustainable fisheries development." In its quest to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, the Kingdom has adopted a circular carbon economy approach, which has emerged as a major tool to address marine pollution. The Kingdom is also developing the Coral Reef Development Research Accelerator Platform (CORDAP), which was launched by G20 leaders during the Kingdom's 2020 presidency. The CORDAP program currently brings together environmental scientists from around the world to develop new technologies that support the conservation of tropical coral and cold-water reefs. Last year, the program also launched grants of up to $18 million for innovative solutions aimed at protecting the future of coral reefs.
Saudi Arabia commits to supporting global environmental initiatives to combat marine pollution
Riyadh, August 3, 2023 - In a landmark event in Hurghada, Egypt, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli took the stage to deliver the Kingdom's speech at the 20th session of the Regional Commission for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
In a recent statement, the minister emphasized the Kingdom's firm commitment to support and promote initiatives aimed at combating marine pollution and dealing with urgent environmental issues. With unwavering determination, the Kingdom is working to support local, regional and international efforts to achieve a stable and sustainable environment.
Al-Fadhli revealed that the Kingdom has shown a clear awareness of global environmental issues and has taken early steps to launch important initiatives, most notably the Green Middle East Initiative, which has proven effective in developing a detailed action plan to preserve the environment and address climate change.
Internationally, the Kingdom has recently joined the World Ocean Consortium and the Alliance to Eliminate Ocean Plastic Waste. It has also launched a non-profit foundation dedicated to the study of seas and oceans, and a regional center for sustainable fisheries development.
Al-Fadhli emphasized that the Kingdom's environmental efforts aim to enhance biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat land degradation, and improve the quality of life regionally and globally.
He also emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to a circular carbon economy, with an ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2060.
Within the framework of international cooperation, the Kingdom participated in the establishment of the Coral Reef Development Research Accelerator Platform (CORDAP), launched by G20 leaders in 2020, and supported its efforts to protect the marine environments of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Al-Dawood signs two contracts worth more than 25 million riyals for water treatment plant and wireless network projects
On Sunday morning, 19/9/1439 A.H., Prof. Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Dawood, President of the University, signed two contracts for the implementation of a number of projects with a total value of more than 25 million riyals.
Signed contracts included:
Wireless Network Infrastructure Completion Project
Wastewater Treatment Plant and Animal Waste Treatment Plant Buildings at the Agricultural Research and Experiment Station
Al-Dawood signed a contract worth SR 17,742,708 with Al Juraisi Computer Services for the completion of the wireless network infrastructure project.
He also signed a contract with Rakan Contracting Company for the general works project for the implementation of the buildings of the wastewater treatment plant and the animal waste treatment plant worth 7,899,413 riyals.
During the signing of the contracts, Al-Dawood emphasized the need for the executing companies to abide by the terms and conditions of the contract in order to achieve the interest of both parties and serve the development of the educational process in all units and colleges of the university city.
Qassim Water Director thanks the university's efforts in the success of the "Network Water Quality" conference
Engineer Abdulmohsen Al-Furaihi, Director General of Water Services in Qassim Region, sent a letter of thanks to Prof. Dr. Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Dawood, President of the University, for the university's cooperation through its cadres and specialized experts, which contributed to the support and success of the "Network Water Quality" conference.
The conference was held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Meshal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Qassim Region, from 27/1/1440H to 29/1/1440H, at the King Khalid Civilization Center in Buraidah, in the presence of the Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Mansour Al-Mushaiti.
The conference highlighted community awareness and knowledge enrichment of the role played by the wise government represented by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the water distribution sector in the Kingdom to provide drinking water services according to the highest standards and specifications.
UQU President inaugurates the Sustainable Development Center and directs the launch of the Environmental Innovation and Excellence Award for students
On Thursday, 24/8/1439 A.H., Prof. Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Dawood, UQU President, inaugurated the new headquarters of the Center for Sustainable Development at the university and directed the launch of the Environmental Innovation and Excellence Award for male and female students.
He expressed his admiration for the sections of the headquarters, which took into account many requirements in line with the nature of the center's objectives, and viewed exhibits of wild seeds, treated water, types of wild firewood, and healthy "organic" vegetables.
During his meeting with members of the Executive Committee, Al-Dawood praised the center's achievements during the current year, including the preparation of term sheets for the implementation of the university's strategic plan projects related to development and investment in the Qassim region.
The Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, Mr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al-Rubadi, also stressed that one of the most prominent achievements of the center is the establishment of a voluntary sustainability unit and the launch of the Sustainable Development Award for students, which will be announced at the beginning of the next academic year.
References
[1] [Online]. Available: .https://www.arabnews.com/node/2349171/business-economy
[2] [Online]. Available: . https://www.ksa.com/saudi-arabia-commits-to-supporting-global-environmental-initiatives-to-combat-marine-pollution.
[3] [Online]. Available: . https://www.qu.edu.sa/content/news/891
[4] [Online]. Available: . https://www.qu.edu.sa/content/news/1010.
[5] [Online]. Available: . https://www.qu.edu.sa/content/news/880.