The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority announced its official inclusion in the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), becoming the first Saudi royal reserve to receive this prestigious international recognition. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom's journey towards strengthening its global presence in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and achieving sustainable development, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030 .
An achievement that reflects the Kingdom's commitment to sustainability
Minister of State and Cabinet Member, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Royal Reserve Development Authority, Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz , affirmed that this international recognition is not merely an environmental achievement, but a global testament to the Kingdom's pioneering role, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, in presenting an exceptional national model for managing royal reserves. He added that this model combines the area's rich heritage with innovative modern protection methods, and reinforces the concept of sustainable development at both the local and international levels.
The fruit of institutional and strategic work
Prince Turki bin Mohammed explained that the reserve's inclusion in the UN program embodies the culmination of years of institutional work and integrated strategic planning that considered environmental, social, and economic dimensions. He also emphasized that the Crown Prince's direct support has been instrumental in propelling the Kingdom's protected areas sector to advanced stages of excellence and prosperity.
What is the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme?
The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme , established in 1971, is dedicated to achieving sustainability in biodiversity and the environment through rigorous scientific standards applied to nature reserves worldwide. The programme focuses on improving the interaction between humans and their environment, monitoring environmental changes resulting from human activities, and working to mitigate their negative impacts. It also includes supporting environmental education, empowering local communities, and creating local economic opportunities, thereby fostering a balance between ecosystem protection and community development.
The importance of international recognition
This international recognition came after the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve met a set of global standards, including the sustainable management of areas of high environmental value, the implementation of environmental awareness and education programs, empowering the local community to contribute to conservation efforts, and stimulating economic development based on the reserve's resources. This achievement underscores the success of Saudi Arabia's efforts to make the environment a cornerstone of sustainable development and represents a further step towards consolidating the Kingdom's position as a key player in global nature conservation.
