Riyadh - The Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) Talks held yesterday the final session of the series at COP16, titled “Awareness Through Action”.
The session explored the growing role of Saudi youth in environmental initiatives and how their increased participation is helping turn awareness into meaningful action to advance the Kingdom’s sustainability goals.
Director of Programs at the Saudi Youth Society (SYS) Hend Moughrabieh discussed with Associate at Aeon Collective Charles Phillips SYS’ approach to sustainability through hands-on programs and initiatives.
“To achieve a greener Saudi, we at Saudi Youth Society saw that the best way to get youths involved is to show them through action,” she said.
Moughrabieh highlighted SYS’ tree planting initiatives, with young participants actively engaged in planting and maintaining trees across Riyadh, contributing to the Saudi Green Initiative’s goal of growing 10 billion trees and gaining a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship.
She also emphasized the collaborative and intergenerational nature of SYS’ efforts. Guided by experienced mentors and working with organizations like the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) and recycling-focused charities, SYS ensures that its initiatives have lasting impact.
“No one can do anything on their own. We need to work together,” she said.
From waste cleanup projects to Sustainable Development Goals-focused competitions in partnership with United Nations Development Programme, SYS empowers youths to become active contributors to a greener future.
Reflecting on the evolving role of Saudi youth, Moughrabieh said: “In light of Vision 2030, we have seen an incredible rise in youth-focused organizations and a recognition of the power that the youth carry in the Kingdom.”
She said SYS initiatives have led to a shift in mindset, inspiring young people to take meaningful action in their communities.
“We do the action, and that is what leads to awareness, and that leads to change,” she concluded.
&uuid=(email))