Saudi Arabia is leading the way in building a sustainable agricultural sector through innovation, with a focus on adopting new technologies and practices to address the challenges posed by climate change. As temperatures rise and water scarcity becomes more prevalent, the Kingdom is taking proactive steps to ensure food security and protect the environment.
One of the key initiatives in Saudi Arabia’s sustainable agriculture efforts is the promotion of soilless farming techniques, such as vertical farming and hydroponics. These methods allow for more controlled dispensation of water, prevent water wastage, and save significant amounts of water compared to traditional farming practices. By utilizing these innovative techniques, Saudi Arabia is able to produce crops year-round, even in areas with water scarcity or poor soil fertility.
The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Estidamah, is at the forefront of these efforts. Through its vertical farming program, Estidamah aims to optimize crop production, focusing mainly on leafy vegetables and strawberries. With the support of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Estidamah has successfully cultivated high-yield strawberries in greenhouses, demonstrating the potential of these technologies to increase crop yields and food security.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is exemplified by the Wadi Bin Hashbal mega farm in the Asir region. This farm, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest sustainable research demonstration farm in the world, utilizes treated water for irrigation. The treated water undergoes a rigorous treatment process to remove pollutants and ensure its suitability for irrigating crops, contributing to water conservation and sustainable farming practices.
By investing in sustainable agriculture and adopting innovative technologies, Saudi Arabia is setting an example for other nations facing similar challenges. The success of the Kingdom’s sustainable agriculture projects not only ensures food security and environmental protection but also offers hope for agriculture in a changing world. As climate change continues to impact agriculture globally, Saudi Arabia’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope for a more sustainable and resilient future.