About the Program
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia adopted "Saudi Vision 2030" as a methodology and a roadmap for economic and developmental action. To translate this vision into reality, the National Transformation Program (NTP) was launched in 2016. It stands as the first and largest executive program in terms of its assigned strategic objectives, aiming to develop government operations, build necessary capacities, and establish the infrastructure required to achieve the Vision's targets, with the active participation of the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
The Ministry's Role in the Program
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) is one of the key entities leading the National Transformation Program. The Ministry leads the implementation of a package of national strategic objectives that directly impact human life, security, and resource sustainability. Proceeding from its responsibility toward the Kingdom’s natural wealth, the Ministry works to protect and develop the environment, secure water resources, and enhance food security, thereby safeguarding the rights of future generations and establishing the Kingdom as a global model in sustainable development.
The Ministry's Strategic Objectives within the Program
The Ministry contributes directly to achieving the targets of Saudi Vision 2030 through five strategic objectives:
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1- Reducing all types of pollution:
Addressing air, noise, water, and soil pollution to protect public health and enhance the quality of life.
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2- Safeguarding the environment from natural threats:
Implementing proactive mitigation measures and early warning systems to protect ecosystems and communities. (Kindly see the Quality Note below regarding this point).
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3- Ensuring development and food security:
Preserving beaches, islands, reserves, and vegetation cover, and rehabilitating degraded natural habitats.
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4- Ensuring sustainable use of water resources:
consumption, enhancing water sources, improving network efficiency, and securing sustainable supply.
The Ministry's Competencies within the Program
The Ministry is responsible for proposing policies, legislations, and regulations for the environment, water, and agriculture sectors, and supervising their implementation. It is also tasked with developing regulations, executive rules, and guidelines; conducting environmental monitoring, inspections, and licensing; managing water and food resources and agricultural investments; and raising awareness and building capacity in partnership with relevant stakeholders.