Saudi Arabia’s COP16 Presidency presents sustainability awards

Saudi Arabia has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting innovative solutions to land degradation, drought and desertification. As part of its upcoming presidency of COP16 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), the Kingdom launched the Young Researchers Awards at the Science Pavilion with a total prize of US$70,000.

The competition aims to inspire students and young researchers around the world and reward those aged up to 35 who are doing impactful work in areas such as sustainable land management, drought resilience and land restoration. The awards recognize research achievements in seven categories: land restoration, sustainable agricultural and food systems, equitable land governance, community engagement, science and technology, climate adaptation and sustainable land investments. Each category winner receives $10,000.

Osama Faqeeha, Deputy Environment Minister and Advisor to Saudi Arabia’s UNCCD-COP16 Presidency, stressed the urgency of addressing land-related crises. “Land degradation, drought and desertification lead to food insecurity, water shortages and forced migration. COP16 in Riyadh provides an opportunity to find urgent solutions and reverse these global challenges,” he said.

The winners of the awards will be honored at a special ceremony during the COP16 conference in Riyadh. Selected finalists will receive full travel and accommodation expenses for five days in Saudi Arabia, as well as the opportunity to be mentored by leading experts in their field.

The initiative aims to accelerate research, innovation and technology that could support global land restoration and drought resilience efforts. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate innovative approaches, with a focus on long-term sustainability and scalability, particularly in addressing challenges in the Middle East. Submissions are possible until November 22, 2024 and will be evaluated by a jury of renowned scientists.

The awards are in line with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious agenda for COP16, which will focus on mobilizing global action against desertification and drought. Currently, 40% of the world’s land area is degraded, affecting 3.2 billion people. The Kingdom’s efforts during its presidency are aimed at promoting cooperation and ensuring multilateral commitments on critical issues such as land ownership, drought resilience and combating sand and dust storms.

The Science Pavilion at COP16 will serve as a hub for showcasing cutting-edge research and promoting dialogue between scientists, policymakers and stakeholders. This event is part of the first-ever Green Zone UNCCD COP conference dedicated to promoting sustainable solutions.

COP16 will be held next to Riyadh City Boulevard from December 2 to 13, 2024, marking the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD. Under the motto “Our country. Our Future”, the conference aims to advance global efforts to secure a sustainable future and address pressing land-related challenges.