In collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover, and to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, Red Sea Global (RSG), the driving force behind groundbreaking regenerative tourism projects, Amaala and The Red Sea, has inaugurated its inaugural mangrove nursery. This initiative serves as a crucial step in fulfilling RSG's commitment to planting 50 million mangrove trees by the year 2030.

This venture impeccably resonates with the broader objectives of Saudi Arabia's Green Initiative while firmly aligning with RSG's steadfast dedication to safeguarding and rejuvenating the Kingdom's Red Sea coastline. An overarching ambition to achieve a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040 underpins this commitment.

"Our profound respect for the environment is unwavering, as we recognize it as our most invaluable asset. We not only hold the responsibility to preserve it but also to proactively enhance it whenever possible. The successful establishment of our Mangrove Nursery stands as a testament to our resolute dedication towards preserving and revitalizing the Red Sea coastline," affirmed [Spokesperson's Name], [Title] at Red Sea Global. "While we constantly explore novel methodologies, embrace cutting-edge approaches, and harness innovative technologies, we must acknowledge that nature often provides the most remarkable solutions. Mangrove forests possess extraordinary capabilities, from carbon storage and flood management to coastal stabilization and the provision of habitat for marine life. These super ecosystems play a pivotal role in our environmental aspirations, and our Mangrove Nursery will significantly bolster their numbers, thereby ensuring the realization of our environmental vision."

Nurtured within the nursery for an approximate period of eight months, the seedlings will grow to 80cm before being meticulously transplanted to designated mangrove parks within the destination. RSG's experts have meticulously selected native mangrove species, including the Rhizophora Mucronate (red mangrove) and the Avicenna Marina (gray mangrove), to enhance the chances of their survival and proliferation.

"The establishment of a sustainable mangrove ecosystem stands as a pivotal component of our commitment to preserving and enriching the natural environment of our destination. These trees represent one of the most effective tools for carbon sequestration, capable of absorbing 5-10 times more carbon than other plants. Coupled with their positive impact on biodiversity, the successful cultivation of these seedlings forms a central pillar in our drive to achieve a 30 percent net conservation benefit across our destinations. This moment is a source of immense pride for our organization," affirmed Raed Albasseet, Group Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer at RSG.

Nurturing mangrove nurseries necessitates safeguarding them from inherent threats within their natural habitats, such as storms, extreme tides, grazing animals, and algae. RSG has implemented the highest protective measures for the nursery to ensure minimal harm to the delicate seedlings.

The dedicated mangrove parks are poised to become a fundamental part of the guest experience, inviting visitors to engage and gain insights into the vital roles these ecosystems play within nature.

Tarik Alabbasi, Environmental Programs Director at RSG, elaborated, "Cultivating and transplanting mangrove trees is a highly intricate process, demanding meticulous planning and expertise. Given the necessity of water for mangrove survival, nurseries are strategically located within the intertidal zone, adjacent to a water source, ensuring optimal seedling growth. Carefully tracking tide cycles and weather conditions is essential, as we seek low-tide periods and avoid windy days."

RSG's mangrove nursery establishment stands as the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at safeguarding and enhancing vital habitats crucial for biodiversity. Earlier achievements encompass the successful transplantation of native Doum Palm Trees earlier this year and the establishment of innovative floating coral nurseries to expand the region's coral reefs. Regular environmental surveys are conducted to monitor impacts and improvements within wildlife ecosystems, refining strategies and ensuring alignment with regenerative objectives.

This initiative follows the recent release of findings from RSG's latest Wildlife and Ecosystem Study. This study builds upon the results of last year's groundbreaking environmental baseline survey, covering 250 km of coastline across The Red Sea and Amaala destinations.

As the completion of The Red Sea destination nears, with the inaugural opening of the international airport and the first hotels expected this year, Amaala is set to welcome visitors in 2024.