How Saudi Arabia’s shift to cleaner fuels will benefit public health and improve air quality

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The Kingdom is helping to accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy, while supporting environmentally sustainable development. (RCRC photo)
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Updated 09 March 2024
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How Saudi Arabia’s shift to cleaner fuels will benefit public health and improve air quality

  • The Ministry of Energy recently announced the domestic rollout of cleaner Euro 5 gasoline and diesel
  • Cleaner fuels produce less carbon dioxide, helping the Kingdom cut emissions and achieve its net-zero pledge

RIYADH: In an era of increasing environmental awareness, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to balancing its carbon footprint by combating air pollution and reducing toxic emissions caused by the transport sector.

The Kingdom took a major step forward in sustainable practices last month when the Ministry of Energy announced the introduction of Euro 5-standard diesel and gasoline to the domestic market as cleaner alternatives to current fuel products.

The move demonstrated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering a greener future and improving air quality in the Kingdom.




The Saudi Ministry of Energy announced the introduction of Euro 5 standard diesel and gasoline to the domestic market as cleaner alternatives to current fuel products. (AN file photo)

Its objective, in line with the eco-friendly goals of Vision 2030, is to lower carbon emissions by 278 million tonnes annually by the end of the decade, paving the way to reach net zero emissions by 2060.

“This is the biggest encouraging news for clean energy adoption,” Abdulaziz Almizani, head of sustainability in renewable energy and the circular economy at the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, told Arab News.

Burning just one gallon (3.8 liters) of gasoline produces 8,887 grams of carbon dioxide, while one gallon of diesel emits 10,180 grams of carbon dioxide, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. The launch of Euro 5 in Saudi Arabia is expected to result in a major reduction in air pollution.

The Kingdom has already embraced sustainable aviation fuel. By expanding its use of cleaner fuels to other modes of transport, Saudi Arabia is taking a proactive role in addressing global climate concerns.

With around 15 million registered cars on its roads, the transition to cleaner fuels will offer significant benefits to the environment and public health.

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Air pollution can cause a variety of health issues including strokes, ischemic heart disease and lung cancer, according to the World Health Organization. Clean fuels contain less sulfur, reducing major contributors to air pollution such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide.

By adopting cleaner fuels, the country aims to enhance air quality, protect public health, and promote sustainable living for generations to come.

DID YOUKNOW?

• Inhaling small amounts of gasoline and diesel vapor can cause nose irritation, respiratory problems and dizziness, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

• Euro 5 produces 50 times less carbon discharge than regular gasoline and diesel.

• Saudi Arabia aims to establish OXAGON, a 100% sustainable industrial city with zero emissions.

This move also demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to meeting its obligations under international climate pacts such as the Paris Agreement.

Additionally, the Kingdom’s move toward clean fuels has the potential to reshape the global energy landscape.

As one of the world’s largest oil producers, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cleaner fuels sends a strong message to other oil-producing nations that they can adapt and embrace sustainable practices.




Saudi Arabia is striving to become one of the world’s largest producers of clean energy, including green hydrogen, solar, wind and nuclear power. (MOE photo)

By providing this inspiration, the Kingdom is helping to accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy, while supporting environmentally sustainable development.

Although the launch of clean gasoline and diesel is an important milestone, Saudi Arabia is taking a gradual approach to its transition to fully renewable sources of energy.

In an interview last month with the quarterly bulletin of the Saudi Association for Energy Economics, Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said the need for fossil fuels is unlikely to decrease any time soon.

Despite this, Saudi Arabia is striving to become one of the world’s largest producers of clean energy, including green hydrogen, solar, wind and nuclear power.




NEOM, the futuristic smart city currently under construction in the Kingdom’s northwest, will soon host the world’s largest green hydrogen plant. (Supplied)

NEOM, the futuristic smart city currently under construction in the Kingdom’s northwest, will soon host the world’s largest green hydrogen plant.

Also planned for NEOM is OXAGON, a zero-emissions industrial smart city, which will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy. The city will include a research facility focused on environmental sustainability issues.




OXAGON, a zero-emissions industrial smart city, which will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy. (Supplied)

Along with the government’s commitment to neutralize carbon concentration in the air and promote clean energy, Saudi Arabia is also at the forefront of providing education and raising awareness of current environmental problems.

“We have to start with ourselves, us as sustainability leaders,” said Almizani, stressing the importance of starting local and thinking global.

“I should raise awareness in my family and among relatives in the beginning; then the public will recognize the adaptation from my family and network circle. I can also talk about it through the media and newspapers.”

Saudi Arabia has launched several projects aimed at creating greater environmental awareness, particularly among young people.

Last year, the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve implemented the “School Reserve” initiative in five educational complexes, with the aim of motivating more than 500 students to volunteer for environmental awareness programs.




Saudi Arabia's Middle East Green Initiative plans to plant 50 billion trees across the region. (Supplied)

Beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders, the Middle East Green Initiative, launched in 2021, aims to combat the effects of climate change in the entire region.

Some of its projects include the planting of 50 billion trees across the Middle East and supporting plans to eliminate 670 tonnes of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions.

In doing so, Saudi Arabia is contributing to the global effort to combat climate change, protect the environment, and position itself as a future leader in the renewable energy sector.

 


King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain

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King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain

RIYADH: King Salman called on Muslims in Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

“Everyone who is able should be keen to perform the prayer, in accordance with the tradition of Prophet Muhammad,” the Royal Court said.

Muslims are often asked to pray for rainfall in times of drought or other water shortages.


Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

Updated 26 November 2024
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Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

  • Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture

RIYADH: The Global Harmony initiative concludes its third edition with a week-long celebration of Egyptian music, art and tradition in Suwaidi Park as part of Riyadh Season.

Running from Nov. 24-30 and organized by the Ministry of Media, the event invites visitors to experience Egypt’s rich heritage through a range of cultural activities.

Speaking to Arab News, Egyptian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Tarek El-Meligy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. “The Egyptian community is the most harmonious, coexistent and understanding in a positive way within Saudi society,” he said.

“If you ask any Egyptian which country they would like to live in after Egypt, they will say Saudi Arabia.”

The Egyptian ambassador to Saudi Arabia visits the Egyptian festival at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, held as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Sarry Shaaban, an executive and consultant at the General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are talking about millions of visitors, both residents and Saudis, entering the park. Whether I’m a resident, a Saudi or from a country hosting the event, it provides an opportunity for residents to learn about your culture, colors, explore its arts, food, crafts, and traditional industries.”

Live music and dance performances displaying Egypt’s cultural traditions, with the rhythm of drums and flutes and performers in traditional costumes, have brought the life and spirit of Cairo’s streets to Riyadh.

A separate bazaar area has been set up featuring Egyptian cuisine, traditional clothing and handcrafted items.

Performers showcase traditional Egyptian folk costumes and dances during celebrations at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, part of the Global Harmony Initiative, on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

“An event like this carries positive messages and highlights something we strive to emphasize every day, that we are one people, united by love and affection,” said El-Meligy.

Egyptian Sameh Nabil emphasized the feel of unity: “This initiative brought us closer together as Egyptians, and with Saudis here, I feel like we are brothers. I always feel like we are not expatriates.”

And visitor Khaled Zahir said: “This event reflects the love, connection and affection between Egyptians living in the Kingdom and Saudis.”

Performers in Egyptian attire take part in a parade at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, celebrating Egyptian culture as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Egyptians make up 11 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population, according to the Saudi Census, meaning such exhibitions are important in promoting mutual respect and harmony.

El-Meligy said Saudi Arabia hosted the largest Egyptian expatriate community abroad, with remittances from those in the Kingdom forming a significant part of their home nation’s income.

“In recent months, remittances from Egyptians abroad have increased substantially, thanks to the facilities between the two countries and the confidence in both the Saudi and Egyptian economies,” he added.

Performers in Egyptian attire take part in a parade at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, celebrating Egyptian culture as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (Photo/@RiyadhSeason)

Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture. In his October visit to Cairo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss investment opportunities and the establishment of a supreme coordination council to deepen bilateral relations.

Trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw a 35.16 percent annual increase in the first half of 2024, according to the General Authority of Statistics. The increase was driven by a 73.44 percent surge in Saudi imports from Egypt, totaling $4.18 billion.

Egypt has also shown a growing interest in investing in Saudi Arabia, with a 71 percent rise in licenses granted to Egyptian firms in the second quarter of 2024.

The festival, which began in October, highlights the lives, contributions and cultural integration of its residents. So far, it has celebrated cultures including Indian heritage and moving through Philippine, Indonesian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, Lebanese and Syrian traditions.

 


Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

The General Director of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Support Office, Abdulaziz Alghannam, speaks at the 175th general assembly meeting.
Updated 26 November 2024
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Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

  • Members of Riyadh Expo 2030 update Bureau International des Expositions on progress toward hosting the event

RIYADH: A Saudi delegation representing Riyadh Expo 2030 took part in a Bureau International des Expositions meeting on Tuesday to review the Kingdom’s readiness to host the global event.

In November 2023, Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo between October 2030 and March 2031 in the capital, Riyadh.

The Riyadh Expo 2030 delegation took part in the 175th general assembly meeting of the BIE, a Paris-based intergovernmental organization which oversees and regulates World Expos, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They updated senior officials of the BIE about the latest Saudi developments and preparations for hosting the event. They also discussed progress on work to accommodate an expected 246 exhibitors, including countries, organizations and companies, at a site north of Riyadh.

Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” the event aims to be a unique platform for innovations and modern technologies which aim to find answers to challenges facing the planet in various fields, according to the Expo 2030 website.


Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

Updated 26 November 2024
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Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

  • Event gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector
  • Exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals

RIYADH: This year’s HORECA exhibition held in Riyadh is underscoring the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global hospitality market.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the three-day event concludes on Nov. 27 and gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector.

The event contributes to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering private-sector growth, promoting tourism, and enhancing the country’s food and beverage industries.

The exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals.

Visitors can sample creative dishes, observe new techniques in food and beverage, and explore sustainable packaging solutions, among other highlights.

Prince Waleed bin Nasser, guest of honor and CEO of Mukatafa Co., highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors.

Speaking at a session on public policies impacting the food and beverage sector, he said: “The vision today aspires for the private sector to play a significant role in the development of the economy. The private sector must take the initiative to have a voice. To achieve this, it needs to be organized and united in presenting a single perspective.”

He also emphasized the need for proactive engagement: “We must work as one, united with a common vision, and present this vision in a professional manner backed by facts, ensuring that the decisions made have a positive impact on the sector and the citizens.”

Culinary competitions are among the highlights celebrating creativity and technical skills at HORECA. Mohammed Naif, a participant representing Saudi Arabia’s Hotel and Tourism Management Institute, told Arab News: “The atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was all about passion and enjoyment. There was a panel of judges and organizers who were very supportive — if you made a mistake, they would help you, and if you had an incomplete idea, they would guide you.

“I encourage anyone with a passion for cooking to join, showcase their creativity, and learn while bringing out their best.”

The exhibition also provided a platform for networking, with exhibitors showcasing local innovations as well as international brands. From cutting-edge hospitality tech to Saudi-inspired culinary creations, the event highlighted the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for the sector.


Saudi economy minister meets former Italian prime minister

Updated 26 November 2024
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Saudi economy minister meets former Italian prime minister

  • They discussed areas of collaboration and other topics of mutual interest

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim met with Matteo Renzi, strategic counselor at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and former prime minister of Italy, the Economy Ministry said on X on Tuesday.

During the meeting, they discussed areas of collaboration and other topics of mutual interest.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Commerce Majid Al-Qasabi met with Zambian Minister of Trade and Industry Chibuka Mulenga.

“We discussed strengthening our trade relations and developing joint cooperation between our countries,” the Saudi minister wrote on X.