The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has launched a unique awareness campaign aimed at reshaping environmental culture within educational institutions, emphasizing that promoting sustainable behaviors among students and teachers is no longer a luxury but an urgent necessity for protecting natural resources. This initiative, "As the Book Says," seeks to transform schools from mere educational buildings into sustainable environments that embrace healthy practices as an integral part of daily life.
National context and ambitious vision
This initiative cannot be separated from the broader context of the major transformations taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where environmental preservation is a cornerstone of Vision 2030. This issue has gained tremendous momentum and strategic focus since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative, which aims to increase vegetation cover, reduce carbon emissions, and combat pollution. From this perspective, targeting schools, as the primary environment for future generations, is crucial to ensuring the development of a generation aware of its responsibilities towards the planet and the nation's resources.
Implementation mechanisms and sustainable behaviors
The ministry outlined a set of precise practical measures to ensure the initiative's success, moving beyond theoretical pronouncements to concrete implementation. These measures included maintaining classroom temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, preserving humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent, and conserving paper through double-sided printing and meticulous waste sorting. The initiative also emphasized energy efficiency by requiring schools to switch off air conditioners and computers when not in use and to regularly clean filters, reflecting a comprehensive approach to resource management within the school environment.
The role of the educational institution and society
Dr. Al-Ramdhi Qaed Al-Saqri, Director General of the General Administration for Non-Profit Sector Organizations at the Ministry, explained that the initiative's success lies in integrating it into school lessons and extracurricular activities, making it a way of life rather than just a fleeting campaign. Similarly, Dr. Saad Ayed Al-Otaibi, Professor of Environmental Science, pointed to the "Sustainable Schools" experience implemented in Taif Governorate, which achieved savings of up to 40% on energy and water bills compared to similar international initiatives. He emphasized the necessity of integrated efforts between families and schools to achieve the desired goals.
Expected impact and future of sustainability
This initiative is expected to have a lasting impact that extends far beyond the school walls. Instilling environmental values at a young age contributes to graduating a generation that practices sustainability instinctively, which will positively impact the national economy by reducing energy and water waste. This approach also strengthens the Kingdom's international standing as a leader in climate action and sustainable development, as students become environmental ambassadors in their homes and communities, sharing the knowledge and best practices they have acquired. This was emphasized by a number of educators and parents who stressed the importance of positive role models and community partnerships in ensuring the success of these national efforts.
