RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification held a workshop recently in Baha focused on plans to carry out a social and economic survey of communities living near forests.

The aim is to create a sustainable action plan for the Al-Khala and Al-Ghouqa forests and evaluate ecotourism opportunities in the areas. This effort is part of a broader study to assess and develop national forests.

The gathering was held in collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and local communities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

During the workshop the center’s delegation met with tribal leaders, representatives, and members of environmental organizations to emphasize the community’s vital role in forest conservation.

The workshop included an explanation of the social and economic survey methodology and field visits to the targeted sites, the SPA reported.

The goal is to understand the perspectives of local communities on the surrounding forests and explore their potential contributions to sustainable management.

This includes identifying agricultural and pastoral practices to determine the most effective community involvement in the protection and rehabilitation of local forests.

RIYADH: The General Entertainment Authority has partnered with the Grace Preservation Foundation to promote sustainability and food preservation during Riyadh Season 2024.

This collaboration aims to raise public awareness about reducing waste, foster stronger community partnerships, and enhance the third sector's contribution to the economy, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

As part of the agreement, the foundation will lead various initiatives, including a media campaign on preserving resources, a pavilion to promote awareness, and efforts to collect and distribute surplus food in collaboration with local associations.

Promotional content on waste reduction, environmental protection, and sustainability will also be featured throughout Riyadh Season.

Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman bin Saeed, the foundation’s secretary-general, highlighted the significance of such partnerships in supporting the food preservation sector’s community goals.