Arab League Sounds Alarm on Resource Depletion in Arid Lands

Photo : WAM

The Arab League has raised alarms regarding the detrimental effects of ongoing natural resource depletion and land degradation on food security in the region. Alarmingly, around 90 percent of the land in Arab countries is classified as dry or extremely dry, rendering it highly vulnerable to desertification.

Ambassador Dr. Ali bin Ibrahim Al Maliki, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Economic Affairs Sector at the Arab League, emphasized the urgent need for regional cooperation to combat these pressing issues. He called for adherence to environmental treaties and the implementation of sustainable development initiatives.

To address these challenges, the Arab Council of Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs has launched several programs aimed at achieving the goals outlined in the Arab Declaration on Environment and Development. These initiatives focus on combating desertification, reducing industrial pollution, and promoting a green and circular economy throughout the region.

In recognition of these issues, Arab Environment Day is scheduled for October 14, featuring various events aimed at raising awareness about crucial environmental challenges facing the Arab world.

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Additionally, the Arab League entered into a partnership with China last year to establish the China-Arab International Research Centre for Drought, Desertification, and Land Degradation. This collaboration seeks to utilize China's expertise in desertification control to strengthen the region’s capacity for sustainable land management.

In the United Arab Emirates, a new initiative called "Plant the Emirates" has recently been launched, which aims to enhance food security, advance agricultural technology, and foster partnerships with the private sector. This campaign also aims to expand green spaces across the country to promote sustainability. Furthermore, it will provide technical support for innovative agricultural projects, ensuring the sector's ongoing evolution by embracing modern practices and technology-driven solutions.