Saudi Arabia to Host World Environment Day 2024: Emphasising Land Restoration and Drought Resilience
Introduction:
In a ground-breaking announcement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), unveiled its plans to host World Environment Day 2024. Set for June 5th, this event will shine a spotlight on crucial issues such as land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, all of which bear significant implications for property and land management.
Since its inception by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972, World Environment Day has evolved into a global platform for environmental advocacy, drawing millions worldwide to engage in online campaigns, events, and community actions.
The urgency of the chosen themes cannot be overstated. According to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, approximately 40% of the world’s land is degraded, directly impacting half of the global population and posing a threat to property values and land quality. Moreover, the escalating frequency and duration of droughts, with a 29% increase since 2000, raise concerns about water scarcity and its impact on property landscapes.
At the core of the agenda lies land restoration, a fundamental component of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030). This initiative is crucial for property owners and developers, as it emphasizes the preservation and rejuvenation of ecosystems, which in turn enhances property values and ensures sustainable land use.
The significance of 2024 extends beyond World Environment Day; it marks the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. To commemorate this milestone, the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) will convene in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, from December 2nd to December 13th, 2024.
About World Environment Day:
Since its inception in 1973, World Environment Day has evolved into the UN’s premier platform for fostering global awareness and action towards environmental conservation. With the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) leading the charge, more than 150 countries partake annually. The Day not only promotes environmental stewardship but also serves as a catalyst for advancing the environmental aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals. From major property corporations to grassroots organizations, entities worldwide unite under the banner of World Environment Day to champion environmental causes and effect positive change.
As Saudi Arabia prepares to host World Environment Day 2024, property owners, developers, and stakeholders alike eagerly anticipate the collaborative efforts and innovative solutions that will emerge to address land degradation, desertification, and drought resilience. This historic event holds the potential to drive sustainable property practices, foster resilient landscapes, and ensure a prosperous future for property owners and communities alike.