Saudi Arabia Joins Ramsar Convention, Ushering in Enhanced Environmental and Economic Benefits
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – May 22, 2024 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced its accession to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, a landmark decision poised to significantly bolster the nation’s environmental stewardship and unlock substantial economic advantages. This momentous step, approved by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to international environmental cooperation and its proactive role in shaping global conservation efforts.
The Ramsar Convention, an intergovernmental treaty established in 1971, provides a framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. By joining this esteemed convention, Saudi Arabia aligns itself with a global network of countries dedicated to protecting these vital ecosystems, which are crucial for biodiversity, water resources, climate regulation, and human well-being.
This decision is anticipated to yield a cascade of positive environmental outcomes for the Kingdom. Wetlands, often referred to as the “kidneys of the Earth,” play an indispensable role in purifying water, mitigating floods, preventing coastal erosion, and supporting a rich tapestry of plant and animal life. Saudi Arabia’s participation in the Ramsar Convention will facilitate the implementation of best practices for wetland management, the designation of new Ramsar sites, and the development of robust conservation strategies for its diverse wetland ecosystems, which range from coastal mangroves and salt marshes to inland oases and freshwater marshes.
Beyond the ecological advantages, the accession is expected to generate significant economic benefits. Sustainable wetland management can foster eco-tourism, create job opportunities in conservation and related sectors, and support livelihoods dependent on wetland resources, such as fisheries and agriculture. The convention’s emphasis on “wise use” encourages the balanced integration of conservation with economic development, ensuring that these valuable natural assets continue to provide benefits for present and future generations.
Furthermore, this move signifies Saudi Arabia’s strengthened position on the international stage concerning environmental policy. By actively participating in the Ramsar Convention, the Kingdom will have a more influential voice in shaping global discussions and decisions related to wetland conservation and sustainable development. This allows Saudi Arabia to contribute its unique insights and experiences while advocating for national interests and priorities in a collaborative international framework.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has expressed its enthusiasm for this significant development, highlighting its dedication to preserving Saudi Arabia’s natural heritage and contributing to global environmental sustainability. The Kingdom’s commitment to the Ramsar Convention marks a pivotal moment in its ongoing journey towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future, reinforcing its positive influence in addressing global environmental challenges.
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mewa.gov.sa published ‘”البيئة” الموافقة على انضمام المملكة إلى اتفاقية الأراضي الرطبة تعزز المنافع البيئية والاقتصادية وتدعم دورها الإيجابي في صياغة القرارات وفقًا للمصلحة الوطنية’ at 2024-05-22 00:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.