
NCW Showcases Baboon Population Management at 30th IPS Congress
Drawing on findings from leading primatology journals, the NCW shared Saudi Arabia's distinctive, science-based approach to mitigating the impacts of baboon overpopulation. The presentation emphasized the integration of academic research and practical field strategies in addressing these challenges.
As one of the most prominent global gatherings in the field, the IPS Congress brings together researchers and experts dedicated to the study of primates. Saudi Arabia's active participation reflects its commitment to advancing environmental science and promoting innovative national practices. These efforts are in line with the goals of Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
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On land, extreme heat and reduced rainfall are accelerating desertification and shrinking the range of numerous native species such as the Arabian leopard, Asir magpie, and acacia trees. A recent study found that many Middle Eastern mammals may lose over 40 percent of their viable habitat by 2050 under high-emissions scenarios. Saudi Arabia is taking a proactive approach to environmental challenges. Through the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has placed nature-based solutions and climate adaptation at the heart of its national strategy. Since 2021, over 115 million native trees have been planted, more than 118,000 hectares have undergone ecological rehabilitation, and 18.1 percent of land has been designated for protection, with a goal to reach 30 percent by 2030. The role of science and technology in scaling these efforts is expanding rapidly. 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In parallel, marine biodiversity is being enhanced through coastal restoration, such as the regeneration of mangroves and seagrass beds, which not only store carbon but also buffer storm surges and enhance fisheries. These efforts are widely recognized as integral to Saudi Arabia's broader coastal resilience strategies. At the heart of Saudi Arabia's environmental transformation is a growing conviction that protecting nature is essential to securing the nation's future. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, captures this emerging sense of purpose. 'Our vision for the future is clear: a Saudi Arabia where wildlife thrives, habitats are restored, and the natural balance is maintained for the benefit of all,' he said recently. 'NCW's dedication to protecting Saudi Arabia's natural legacy remains unwavering. We are confident that, with continued effort and collaboration, we can build a future where the natural world is preserved for generations to come.' This vision underscores the critical link between biodiversity stewardship and climate resilience — and affirms that conservation is not a peripheral effort, but a national imperative and a central pillar of the Kingdom's long-term sustainable development, environmental security, and economic resilience. Moreover, experts in the region echo the importance of strategic integration. As Chris Boland, director of the Arabian Biodiversity Consultancy, notes: 'Climate change isn't just reshaping ecosystems — it's rewriting the rules of conservation. Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to unite traditional ecological wisdom with cutting-edge science to protect its species and landscapes. This is not only about conserving biodiversity, but about future-proofing the Kingdom's natural heritage in a rapidly warming world. It's now or never.' His insight underscores the need for adaptive, forward-thinking strategies that address the complexities of conservation under uncertainty. 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Saudi Arabia's climate and environmental strategy reflects a growing international consensus: Protecting biodiversity is not only essential for ecological stability but also contributes directly to long-term sustainable development. Investing in biodiversity safeguards vital ecosystem services — such as clean water, fertile soils, pollination, and climate regulation — that underpin food security, health, and economic growth. As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized during the launch of the Saudi Green Initiative in 2021, environmental stewardship is a foundation for intergenerational prosperity and global cooperation. Ultimately, climate action and biodiversity protection are two sides of the same coin. This linkage has been central to international frameworks such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention on Biological Diversity. 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