The tree logging and destruction in Saudi Arabia has led to 120,000 being lost in the Kingdom annually, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture said.
In a report by Arab News, the Ministry has launched a national afforestation until April to stop desertification—which threatens about 70 to 90 percent of the Kingdom’s land. Currently, Saudi has lost 80 percent of its vegetation, and will continue to deteriorate unless the tree-logging is stopped for good.
The Ministry added that the loss of trees has led to natural vegetation suffering for the past 40 years, a reason they are undertaking the best efforts to track down everyone and every business that are causing harm to Saudi’s land and vegetation.
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Violators will be subject to harsh penalties such as confiscation of vehicles and hefty fines, which can be as high as SR5,000 (Dhs4,800) for cutting a tree or SR10,000 (Dhs9,700) for transporting logs.
The Ministry also urged the public to be responsible for our trees and to stop buying firewood in the market. Residents and businesses are also encouraged to invest in wood production, and support afforestation projects.
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