A national initiative to rehabilitate contaminated sites

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Environmental Compliance has embarked on a mission to rehabilitate contaminated air, soil and water across the Kingdom, setting a global example for environmental restoration.

This initiative is not just about technical processes and regulations — it is about safeguarding the future of Saudi Arabia’s natural resources and public health.

The center’s initiative, which is aligned with the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030, involves extensive field surveys, data collection and laboratory analyses to identify and assess the extent of contamination at more than 320 polluted sites covering an area in excess of 12 million cubic meters.

From air and soil to groundwater, every aspect of the environment is meticulously examined to determine the best rehabilitation strategies.

For instance, the project begins with a detailed survey phase, where potential contamination is identified through desktop studies and field assessments.

The second phase involves rigorous field sampling and laboratory analyses, such as drilling groundwater wells to measure pollution levels.

Following these assessments, the National Center for Environmental Compliance develops targeted treatment and rehabilitation plans, ensuring that each site is restored to its natural state.

The initiative also involves estimating the costs of the damage caused by pollution and the expenses associated with rehabilitating the identified sites.

From air and soil to groundwater, every aspect of the environment is meticulously examined to determine the best rehabilitation strategies.

Saad Dahlawi

But this initiative is more than just a clean-up operation, it is a comprehensive approach that also involves monitoring and compliance.

Environmental monitoring plans, including inspections and the use of satellite imagery, are established to track and oversee rehabilitation and treatment efforts.

So far, 30 plans have been developed for the removal of pollutants and treatment of the most critical sites.

Polluters are also held accountable through stringent regulations, requiring them to work with licensed consultants to develop and implement site-specific rehabilitation plans and to handle and dispose of pollutants.

Once these plans are executed, the center ensures compliance through meticulous oversight, issuing closure certificates only when all standards are met.

This structured and multiphase approach is crucial for restoring the Kingdom’s natural resources and mitigating the impact of industrial pollution.

The initiative’s success is measured not just by the number of sites rehabilitated, but by the long-term sustainability of these efforts, ensuring that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier environment.

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Environmental Compliance is not only addressing the environmental challenges of today, it is also laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.

This initiative exemplifies the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with global best practices and setting new standards in environmental compliance and rehabilitation.

• Saad Dahlawi is the director general of the Environment Media Evaluation Department at the Saudi National Center for Environmental Compliance.