{
  "id": 14491976,
  "title": "Najran highlights environmental diversity from mountains to Empty Quarter on Arab Environment Day",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/najran-highlights-environmental-diversity-from-mountains-to-empty",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-14T16:49:47.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ajel English",
    "slug": "ajel-english",
    "url": "https://english.ajel.sa/lifestyle/2n0kqorgf"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Najran region demonstrates its diverse landscapes, agricultural wealth, and commitment to sustainability on Arab Environment Day, which is commemorated every year on October 14. The environment of Najran ranges from majestic mountain ranges to the vast expanses of the Empty Quarter and Uruq Bani Ma arid Reserve. This environmental diversity demands collective responsibility to protect and maintain.\n\nNajran's terrain encompasses highlands, hills, rocky valleys, and fertile plains. Wadi Najran, a prominent watercourse, is flanked by palm, citrus, and grape orchards. Local flora like Sidr and Salam trees thrive in various natural locales, while mountains and sand dunes contribute to the unique topography. The eastern sector extends into the sands of the Empty Quarter and includes the Uruq Bani Ma arid Reserve, renowned for its geological wonders and habitats that sustain diverse wildlife, including the Arabian oryx and sand gazelle.\n\nAgriculture forms the cornerstone of Najran's environment and society, encompassing over 5,000 farms covering 27,000 hectares. Major crops include dates, citrus fruits, grapes, figs, strawberries, and a burgeoning coffee industry that now includes over 100,000 trees across 111 farms. Innovative agricultural practices, such as protected and hydroponic farming, and the use of inert media, enhance production efficiency and water conservation. Efforts to recycle agricultural waste into organic fertilizers or animal feed further minimize pollution and boost soil health.\n\nThe Istidama Center in Najran focuses on safeguarding the genetic resources of local citrus and palm varieties, producing environment-adapted seedlings. Initiatives to enhance green spaces in parks and natural areas, exemplified by King Fahd National Park in Saqam Forest, include tree planting, native plant care, and park upkeep. Since 2021, more than 6.7 million trees have been planted in Najran, aiming for 7.8 million by 2030—a 85.9% achievement rate—as part of the National Afforestation Program and the Saudi Green Initiative.\n\nArab Environment Day highlights the critical need for coordinated action by authorities and the community to protect this natural heritage and ensure its enduring health for future generations, particularly as environmental challenges intensify.",
  "summary": "Najran marks Arab Environment Day by showcasing its rich landscapes, agricultural abundance, and efforts in afforestation and sustainability.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}