How Saudi is turning desert into Greenland
"Transforming the Saudi Desert into a Green Oasis: The Green Saudi Initiative, NEOM, and Al-Dahnaa Project"
Saudi Arabia, a country with vast stretches of desert, is on a mission to turn this barren landscape into a green oasis. The kingdom has launched several initiatives and projects aimed at transforming the desert into a thriving environment, with the goal of promoting sustainable development and combating the effects of climate change.
The Green Saudi Initiative
One of the major initiatives taken by Saudi Arabia is the Green Saudi Initiative, which was launched in 2021 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This ambitious initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees in the country over the next decade, covering an area of 40 million hectares. This project is not only intended to increase the country's green cover but also to improve the air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and combat desertification.
The Green Saudi Initiative will be implemented in collaboration with several government agencies, including the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, and the Saudi Green Initiative Center. The project will also involve the participation of the private sector and the general public.
The initiative will focus on planting indigenous trees that are adapted to the local climate and can thrive in the arid conditions of the Saudi desert. The trees will be planted in urban areas, rural communities, and along highways, with a focus on creating green corridors that connect different parts of the country. The initiative will also involve the restoration of degraded land and the establishment of protected areas to conserve biodiversity.
The Green Saudi Initiative is expected to create several job opportunities, especially in the agricultural and forestry sectors. The project will also have a positive impact on the local economy by promoting sustainable tourism and attracting investment in the renewable energy sector.
NEOM: The Sustainable City of the Future
Another major project aimed at transforming the desert landscape into a green oasis is the NEOM project. This project is a futuristic city that is being built from scratch in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia. The city is being designed to be entirely sustainable, with green spaces, renewable energy, and zero-emission transportation.
NEOM will be built on a 26,500 square km area and will be home to one million people. The city will feature an extensive network of parks, gardens, and green spaces that will be irrigated with treated wastewater. The project will also involve the planting of millions of trees and the use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
NEOM is being developed in three phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2025. The city will be powered entirely by renewable energy, with a focus on solar and wind power. The city's transportation system will also be entirely electric, with the use of autonomous vehicles and advanced public transport systems.
NEOM will be a hub for innovation and technology, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions to some of the world's biggest challenges, such as climate change, food security, and water scarcity. The city will be home to several research institutions, including a world-class university dedicated to research in the fields of sustainability and renewable energy.
Al-Dahnaa Project: Planting Trees in the Desert
Apart from these major initiatives, there are several other projects that are being implemented across the country to promote greenery. The Al-Dahnaa Project, for example, aims to plant trees along the 300 km stretch of the Al-Dahnaa desert. This project will not only improve the aesthetics of the desert but also help combat desertification and improve the soil quality.
The Al-Dahnaa desert is an important ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, and the project aims to restore its natural beauty and biodiversity. The project involves planting several species of trees, including acacia, neem, and date palms, that are adapted to the arid conditions of the desert. The project also involves the construction of water harvesting structures, such as dams and check dams, to capture rainwater and reduce the amount of water lost to evaporation.
The project is being implemented in collaboration with local communities, who are actively involved in planting and maintaining the trees. The project is also providing job opportunities to locals, especially those in the agriculture and forestry sectors.
The Vision 2030 Plan
The efforts to turn the Saudi desert into a green oasis are part of the Vision 2030 plan, which was launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The plan aims to diversify the country's economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenue by promoting sustainable development in different sectors, including tourism, renewable energy, and agriculture.
The plan also aims to improve the quality of life for Saudi citizens by investing in social infrastructure, such as healthcare, education, and housing. The plan has several ambitious targets, including increasing the share of renewable energy in the country's energy mix to 50% by 2030 and increasing the contribution of the private sector to the economy to 65%.
The efforts to turn the Saudi desert into a green oasis are a key part of the Vision 2030 plan, as they promote sustainable development, combat climate change, and improve the quality of life for Saudi citizens.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the efforts to transform the Saudi desert into a green oasis are commendable, they are not without challenges. The biggest challenge is the lack of water, as the country is one of the most water-scarce in the world. The success of these initiatives will depend largely on the ability to manage water resources efficiently and sustainably.
Another challenge is the harsh climate of the desert, which makes it difficult to grow plants and trees. However, the initiatives are using technology and innovation to overcome these challenges. For example, the NEOM project is using advanced irrigation techniques and greenhouses to grow plants and vegetables, while the Green Saudi Initiative is focusing on planting trees that are adapted to the local climate.
Despite these challenges, the future prospects for turning the Saudi desert into a green oasis are promising. The initiatives have the support of the government, the private sector, and the general public, and are creating job opportunities and promoting sustainable development. The initiatives are also raising awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and conserving biodiversity.
Conclusion
The efforts to turn the Saudi desert into a green oasis are a testament to the country's commitment to sustainable development and combating climate change. The initiatives, such as the Green Saudi Initiative, NEOM, and the Al-Dahnaa Project, are transforming the desert landscape into a thriving environment, with green spaces, trees, and renewable energy sources.
These initiatives are not only improving the quality of life for Saudi citizens but also promoting sustainable tourism and attracting investment in the renewable energy sector. The success of these initiatives will depend largely on the ability to manage water resources efficiently and sustainably, but with the support of the government, the private sector, and the general public, the prospects for turning the Saudi desert into a green oasis are promising.
About the Creator
Arish Ali
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Avalanches Kill Five Off-Piste Skiers in the Austrian Alps
The Austrian Alps are often portrayed as a winter paradise — a place of pristine white slopes, thrilling descents, and breathtaking mountain views. Every year, thousands of skiers and snowboarders travel from across the world to experience Austria’s famous alpine resorts. But over the weekend, that dream turned into a nightmare when five off-piste skiers lost their lives in two separate avalanche incidents, once again reminding the world that nature can be as unforgiving as it is beautiful. The deadly avalanches struck the Salzburg region, one of Austria’s most popular winter sports areas, despite clear warnings about dangerous snow conditions. As rescue teams worked tirelessly in freezing temperatures, the tragedy raised serious questions about off-piste skiing, risk awareness, and the limits of human control in extreme environments. What Happened in the Austrian Alps? According to Austrian authorities, the fatal incidents occurred on Saturday in two different locations within the Salzburg Alps. The first and deadliest avalanche struck a group of off-piste skiers in the Gastein Valley. A large mass of snow broke loose on a steep slope, sweeping through the area and burying multiple people. Four skiers were killed, while two others were injured, one of them critically. One person in the group managed to escape without injuries. Roughly 90 minutes earlier, a separate avalanche occurred near Bad Hofgastein, another well-known alpine destination. In that incident, a female skier was buried under snow at an altitude of around 2,200 meters. Despite rapid rescue efforts, she did not survive, bringing the death toll to five. Emergency services responded immediately, deploying multiple rescue helicopters, mountain rescue teams, search dogs, and medical personnel. However, avalanches move with terrifying speed, often leaving rescuers with only minutes to locate victims before survival chances drop dramatically. Avalanche Warnings Were Already in Place One of the most troubling aspects of this tragedy is that avalanche warnings had already been issued across much of the Austrian Alps. In the days leading up to the weekend, heavy snowfall combined with shifting temperatures created unstable snow layers. Avalanche experts warned that conditions were particularly dangerous, especially in ungroomed and off-piste areas. Some regions were placed under high avalanche risk levels, signaling that even experienced skiers could trigger deadly slides. Local mountain rescue officials later emphasized that the danger was well known. They described the incident as a painful reminder that avalanche bulletins are not theoretical — they exist to save lives. The Risk of Off-Piste Skiing Off-piste skiing, sometimes called backcountry skiing, has grown increasingly popular in recent years. Many skiers are drawn to untouched snow, quieter slopes, and the thrill of adventure beyond resort boundaries. But unlike marked ski runs, off-piste terrain is not controlled or secured against avalanches. Ski resorts routinely use explosives and monitoring systems to reduce avalanche risk on official slopes. Outside those boundaries, however, skiers are fully exposed to natural conditions. Snowpack stability can change suddenly due to wind, temperature shifts, or the weight of a single skier. Even with modern equipment like avalanche beacons and airbags, survival is never guaranteed. Once a person is buried, compacted snow can harden quickly, making self-rescue nearly impossible. A Pattern of Tragedy Across the Alps Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Avalanche fatalities occur every winter across Europe’s mountain regions, and this season has already seen multiple deadly events. Earlier in the week, a 13-year-old boy was killed in an avalanche at another Austrian resort. In separate incidents, skiers have died in Tyrol, Switzerland, and France, all during periods of elevated avalanche risk. Austria alone records an average of around 20 avalanche-related deaths each year, depending on snow conditions and winter tourism levels. Experts warn that climate change may further complicate the issue by creating more unpredictable weather patterns and unstable snowpacks. Rescue Efforts and Emotional Toll Mountain rescue teams are highly trained and deeply committed, but avalanches remain one of the most challenging emergencies they face. In the Salzburg incidents, rescuers worked under intense pressure, racing against time and extreme weather. Beyond the physical danger, such events take an enormous emotional toll on rescuers, local communities, and families of the victims. Alpine towns rely heavily on tourism, and tragedies like this cast a long shadow over what should be a joyful winter season. Authorities have expressed condolences while also urging visitors to reflect seriously on the risks involved in off-piste activities. What Can Be Learned from This Tragedy? While no lesson can undo the loss of five lives, experts consistently highlight several key points: Respect avalanche warnings and bulletins These alerts are based on scientific analysis and real-time data, not guesswork. Understand that experience does not equal immunity Even skilled skiers can misjudge conditions. Stick to groomed slopes during high-risk periods Official ski runs are actively monitored and controlled. Avoid peer pressure and “powder fever” The desire for untouched snow can cloud judgment. Ultimately, the mountains will always involve risk — but informed decisions can mean the difference between life and death. A Sobering Reminder from the Mountains The Austrian Alps remain one of the world’s most spectacular winter destinations. Yet, as this heartbreaking weekend shows, they demand humility and respect. Nature does not negotiate, and it does not forgive recklessness. As investigations continue and families mourn their loved ones, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder: adventure should never come at the cost of ignoring clear danger. For skiers and snowboarders everywhere, the message is painfully clear — no descent is worth a life.
By Muhammad Hassanabout 4 hours ago in Earth
Inside Trump's $11 Billion Health Plan to Replace “Neo-Colonial” USAID
In the landscape of global health aid, few proposals have stirred as much debate as former President Donald Trump’s ambitious plan to restructure American assistance abroad. Dubbed an $11 billion health initiative aimed at replacing USAID’s current framework, the plan seeks to pivot away from what Trump and his allies have criticized as the “neo-colonial” approach of U.S. foreign aid. While the plan promises greater efficiency and impact, experts are split on whether it is a practical solution or a politically driven gamble. Trump’s Critique of USAID The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has long been a central pillar of American foreign assistance, distributing billions in aid annually to address health crises, food insecurity, and development challenges worldwide. However, Trump’s administration and its supporters have often described USAID’s approach as bureaucratic, inefficient, and reflective of a “neo-colonial” mindset. In public statements, Trump argued that the U.S. was spending taxpayer dollars on programs that benefited foreign governments or contractors more than the intended local communities. Critics of the plan say that while USAID has flaws—as any large bureaucracy does—its extensive networks and decades of experience provide an unmatched capacity to deliver aid efficiently and safely. The Core of the $11 Billion Proposal At the heart of Trump’s proposal is an $11 billion fund designed to consolidate, modernize, and streamline U.S. health aid. Unlike the traditional USAID model, which relies heavily on long-term partnerships with governments and NGOs, the new plan emphasizes: Direct Impact Funding: Allocating resources to frontline health workers and local initiatives rather than intermediaries. Data-Driven Investments: Using real-time health data to target outbreaks and crises more efficiently. Private Sector Partnerships: Leveraging U.S. pharmaceutical companies, tech firms, and healthcare startups to deliver vaccines, treatments, and medical infrastructure. Shorter Program Cycles: Moving away from multi-year funding commitments in favor of more flexible, results-oriented programs. Proponents argue that this approach could reduce bureaucratic overhead and ensure U.S. aid reaches communities faster. By “cutting out the middlemen,” Trump supporters claim, America can avoid the pitfalls of slow-moving aid programs that sometimes fail to adapt to crises. Reactions from the Global Health Community Global health experts, however, have expressed concern about both the logistics and philosophy of the plan. Dr. Melissa Ortega, a senior researcher at the Global Health Policy Institute, explained, “The idea of bypassing established structures like USAID may sound appealing on paper, but in practice, it risks undermining decades of institutional knowledge. Health systems are complex, and short-term projects cannot replace long-term capacity building.” Some critics have also questioned the characterization of USAID as “neo-colonial.” While U.S. foreign aid has historically been tied to geopolitical interests, many programs today are designed collaboratively with recipient countries and local organizations. Reducing oversight could unintentionally increase the risk of misuse, corruption, or health inequities. On the other hand, supporters of Trump’s plan point to examples of inefficiency in USAID programs, citing cases where aid was delayed or mismanaged. By introducing more direct funding models, they argue, U.S. taxpayer dollars could achieve a higher “return on health outcomes.” Political Implications Trump’s health aid overhaul proposal is not just about international development—it is also deeply political. Framing USAID as a “neo-colonial” institution resonates with a populist narrative that America should prioritize its own citizens and assert greater control over how taxpayer money is spent abroad. Domestically, the $11 billion plan faces scrutiny from Congress. Lawmakers from both parties have questioned whether dismantling USAID’s systems could destabilize ongoing health programs in countries where the U.S. has long-term commitments. The potential impact on global health security—including the fight against pandemics like COVID-19—adds another layer of concern. Internationally, U.S. allies and partner nations are watching closely. Sudden shifts in aid delivery could disrupt health programs in low- and middle-income countries, many of which rely on predictable funding cycles to maintain vaccination campaigns, maternal health services, and disease surveillance. Possible Benefits and Risks If executed carefully, the Trump-backed model could bring several benefits: Faster Response Times: Direct funding could accelerate delivery of vaccines, treatments, and emergency support. Innovation Boost: By partnering with private sector companies, the plan could accelerate development of new health technologies. Accountability: With performance-based metrics, the plan may better measure the impact of U.S. aid. However, the risks are equally significant: Disruption of Existing Programs: Abrupt changes could destabilize ongoing health projects. Loss of Expertise: USAID’s decades of experience in navigating local governance, supply chains, and community engagement may be hard to replace. Geopolitical Fallout: Allies accustomed to collaborating with USAID might see the move as destabilizing, reducing cooperation on global health initiatives. Looking Ahead As Trump and his allies continue to advocate for this $11 billion overhaul, the debate over the future of U.S. health aid is intensifying. Proponents view it as a necessary modernization of an outdated system, while critics fear it could undercut decades of carefully built infrastructure and global partnerships. Ultimately, the success of this plan will hinge on its ability to balance efficiency with stability, innovation with oversight, and political objectives with humanitarian needs. For now, the proposal remains controversial, representing a dramatic departure from traditional approaches to U.S. foreign aid. Whether it will reshape global health for the better—or simply create more uncertainty—remains to be seen. In the end, the Trump health plan is as much about ideology as it is about dollars. It challenges the conventional wisdom of international development and asks whether a more streamlined, results-focused approach can truly replace a system built over decades. As the world watches, the stakes could not be higher: the future of U.S. global health aid—and the lives it touches—hangs in the balance.
By Muhammad Hassan4 days ago in Earth
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