Saudi Arabia is investing in green initiatives aimed at transforming the desert in the country, but faces numerous challenges in turning this ambitious project into a climate solution.
A professor at KAUST inspects crops at the experimental farm. (Photo: AFP)
As part of the Middle East Green Initiative, Saudi Arabia aims to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate over 74 million hectares of land. To achieve this ambitious goal, effective management of land and water resources is essential. Himanshu Mishra, an environmental science and engineering expert at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), stated that his research team has developed products that can transform the desert into fertile land. This carbon-rich organic fertilizer, made from the abundant chicken manure found in Saudi Arabia, is said to be far more effective than conventional fertilizers, according to AFP.
Mishra explained that the product acts as a sponge, retaining nutrients and water while promoting the microbial biodiversity that plants need to thrive. His experimental farm is lush with greenery thanks to the use of this new fertilizer.
On a vast tract of land amidst the desert north of Jeddah, another project is utilizing microorganisms to reduce the energy costs of wastewater treatment. The facility aims to filter wastewater in an energy-efficient manner, according to manager Peiying Hong at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. The process relies on microorganisms that convert carbon into methane gas. This gas will be collected and used for energy production. The water filtered from this process can be used to grow microalgae that provides feed for livestock and irrigates plants to combat desertification. Recycled water can be extremely beneficial for a desert nation with very limited water resources.
Despite the considerable potential, implementing such systems on a regional or national scale requires financial support and determination from authorities. However, John Robinson, an investor and partner at Mazarine Ventures, stated that raising funds for such startup projects is extremely difficult, even though some may attract private investors.
Meanwhile, in addition to combating desertification, Saudi Arabia is also focusing on carbon capture technology. However, critics argue that this effort is merely a public relations tactic to allow the country to continue investing in fossil fuels.
