IEF chief welcomes Saudi Arabia’s green plans

IEF chief welcomes Saudi Arabia’s green plans

RIYADH — The International Energy Forum (IEF) Secretary General Joseph McMonigle Monday welcomed Saudi Arabia's plan to confront climate change with a series of measures including planting 50 billion trees across the Middle East and accelerating the transition to renewables.

Saudi Arabia is a member of the IEF, the world's largest energy organization whose mandate is to promote dialogue on energy policy and support its members in the transition to a sustainable energy future.“This is an exciting announcement regarding the Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and further strengthen efforts on the climate crisis,” said McMonigle.Under the Saudi Green Initiative announced on Saturday, the Kingdom plans to raise vegetation cover by planting 10 billion trees in the country, reduce carbon emissions by making half of the country's power from renewable sources by 2030, combat pollution and land degradation, and preserve marine life, according to a statement issued by the Saudi Press Agency.Under the Middle East Green Initiative, also announced on Saturday, the Kingdom will coordinate with neighboring states and