Arab League Highlights Environmental Challenges and Solutions on Arab Environment Day
The Arab League has raised concerns about the ongoing depletion of natural resources and land degradation, which threaten food security and stability in the region. With 90% of Arab countries’ land classified as dry or extremely dry, the risk of desertification is high. Ambassador Dr. Ali bin Ibrahim Al Maliki, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Economic Affairs Sector at the Arab League, emphasized the need for regional cooperation to tackle these issues. He highlighted the importance of adhering to environmental treaties and sustainable development during the Arab Environment Day celebration at the Arab League’s headquarters in Cairo. This year’s theme was “Land Restoration for Enhanced Resilience.”
The event gathered experts from Arab nations, international organizations, and civil society to discuss efforts to combat desertification, improve drought resilience, and implement sustainable practices. Al Maliki mentioned that the Arab Council of Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs has launched several programs to achieve the goals of the Arab Declaration on Environment and Development. These initiatives focus on desertification, industrial pollution, and promoting a green and circular economy.
Arab Environment Day, observed on October 14, will include various events to raise awareness about environmental issues in the Arab world. Additionally, the Arab League has partnered with China to establish the China-Arab International Research Centre for Drought, Desertification, and Land Degradation, aiming to use China’s expertise in desertification control to improve sustainable land management in the region. The 35th meeting of the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for the Environment will also take place on the same day in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss further strategies for addressing environmental challenges.
Doubts Revealed
Arab League -: The Arab League is a group of countries in the Arab world that work together on common issues. It includes countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
Natural resource depletion -: Natural resource depletion means using up resources like water, minerals, and forests faster than they can be replaced. This can lead to shortages and environmental problems.
Land degradation -: Land degradation is when the quality of the land gets worse, often due to overuse or pollution. This can make it hard to grow food and support wildlife.
Food security -: Food security means having enough food for everyone to eat. It is important for people to be healthy and live well.
Desertification -: Desertification is when fertile land becomes desert, usually because of drought, deforestation, or poor farming practices. It makes it hard to grow crops and affects the environment.
Sustainable practices -: Sustainable practices are ways of doing things that do not harm the environment and can be continued for a long time. They help protect natural resources for future generations.
Cairo -: Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, a country in North Africa. It is a large city known for its rich history and culture.
Jeddah -: Jeddah is a city in Saudi Arabia, located on the coast of the Red Sea. It is an important commercial center and gateway for pilgrims going to Mecca.