In conjunction with World Oceans Day, CIFAL Saudi organized a dialogue session entitled "Blue Wealth and Marine Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities in Light of Saudi Vision 2030," as part of its ongoing efforts to promote environmental awareness and support the Sustainable Development Goals, with the participation of a distinguished group of specialists and professionals in environmental and marine affairs.
The session was held via video conference and featured Mr. Abdullah bin Abdulrahman Al-Othman, a founding member of the Jeddah Divers Association and former Secretary-General of the Saudi Diving Association, while the session was moderated by Dr. Amal bint Abdullah Al-Muzaid, an expert in SDG 2030 applications.
The session addressed a number of key themes, including an introduction to World Oceans Day and its connection to the Sustainable Development Goals — particularly SDG 14 on Life Below Water, alongside an overview of the concepts of blue wealth and the blue economy and their role in supporting sustainable development. The session also discussed the most pressing environmental challenges facing seas and oceans, as well as the opportunities available to advance marine sustainability and protect biodiversity.
The session shed light on Saudi Arabia's efforts to preserve the marine environment and develop coastal resources in alignment with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030, while also highlighting the role of institutions, individuals, and diving practitioners in protecting marine ecosystems and conserving natural resources.
During the session, Mr. Abdullah bin Abdulrahman AlOthman emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about the significance of oceans and the marine environment, noting that the protection of seas and coastlines is a shared responsibility that requires the concerted efforts of government entities, the private sector, and the community, thereby contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and the achievement of sustainable development for future generations.
For her part, Dr. Amal Al-Mazyad explained that organizing this session is part of CIFAL Saudi programs and initiatives aimed at disseminating knowledge about the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting responsible environmental practices, stressing the importance of building effective partnerships that contribute to protecting the marine environment and achieving the sustainable utilization of its resources.
The organization of this session reaffirms CIFAL Saudi commitment to its role in supporting environmental and developmental causes, raising awareness of the importance of preserving oceans and marine resources, and fostering community participation in achieving a more sustainable future in line with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
