SDG 13 in Saudi Arabia: Climate Action
Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) focuses on taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. For Saudi Arabia, climate action is essential due to its arid climate, reliance on fossil fuels, and vulnerability to climate-related challenges like desertification and water scarcity. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has launched ambitious initiatives to address climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and transition to a more sustainable and resilient economy.
Efforts by the Saudi Government to Address Climate Change
1. Saudi Green Initiative:
- The Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) aims to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of degraded land, contributing to global reforestation efforts.
- SGI also focuses on increasing protected areas and reducing desertification.
2. Renewable Energy Transition:
- The Kingdom is diversifying its energy mix through projects like NEOM and The Red Sea Project, which rely on renewable energy sources.
- Saudi Arabia plans to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
3. Carbon Reduction and Circular Carbon Economy:
- The Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) framework promotes the reduction, reuse, recycling, and removal of carbon emissions.
- Investments in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies aim to mitigate industrial emissions.
4. Energy Efficiency Programs:
- The Saudi Energy Efficiency Program (SEEP) promotes energy-saving measures in buildings, industries, and transportation.
- Awareness campaigns encourage citizens and businesses to adopt energy-efficient practices.
5. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure:
- Urban planning initiatives incorporate climate resilience, focusing on flood management, water conservation, and sustainable urban design.
- Large-scale projects integrate smart and green technologies to ensure sustainability.
6. International Cooperation:
- Saudi Arabia is actively involved in global climate discussions, such as the UN Climate Change Conferences (COP), where it advocates for sustainable energy transitions.
- The Kingdom collaborates with international organizations to share expertise and promote climate action globally.
7. Public Awareness and Education:
- Government campaigns educate citizens about the importance of climate action and encourage sustainable practices, such as recycling and reducing energy consumption.
SDG 13 at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU)
Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) contributes to SDG 13 through campus sustainability initiatives, education, and research that address climate change challenges. The university aligns its efforts with national climate goals, promoting awareness and action among students, faculty, and the community.
1. Sustainable Campus Initiatives:
- IMSIU incorporates renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Green infrastructure on campus includes energy-efficient buildings, water-saving measures, and tree-planting campaigns to enhance carbon sequestration.
2. Education on Climate Change:
- Courses and seminars on environmental science, sustainability, and climate change equip students with the knowledge to address climate challenges.
- Islamic teachings on environmental stewardship and moderation are integrated into the curriculum, emphasizing the ethical responsibility to protect the planet.
3. Climate Research and Innovation:
- Faculty and students engage in research on climate mitigation strategies, such as renewable energy technologies, carbon capture methods, and sustainable agriculture.
- Collaborative research projects with government agencies contribute to national and global climate action efforts.
4. Awareness Campaigns:
- IMSIU organizes events, workshops, and public lectures to raise awareness about climate change and its impacts.
- Campaigns encourage students and staff to adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and using public transportation.
5. Community Engagement:
- The university collaborates with local communities and organizations to promote climate action through educational outreach and sustainability initiatives.
- Partnerships with government bodies support tree-planting drives, water conservation programs, and climate resilience projects.
6. Integration of Faith and Sustainability:
- IMSIU emphasizes the alignment between Islamic principles and climate action, promoting values such as conservation, sustainability, and care for the Earth.
- Religious teachings inspire collective action to combat climate change and protect natural resources.
Impact of IMSIU's Contributions to SDG 13
Through education, research, and community involvement, IMSIU supports Saudi Arabia's climate action goals and contributes to the global fight against climate change. By fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility, the university prepares future leaders to address the pressing challenges of climate change. IMSIU's initiatives demonstrate the role of academic institutions in advancing climate resilience and promoting sustainable development.In order to identify the natural and human components. The Department of Geography and Information Systems at the University Organizes a Field Visit to Abha
https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news_18_10_2024_01.aspx
Under the guidance of His Excellency the President of Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Prof. Ahmed bin Salem Al-Ameri, the Department of Geography and Geographic Information Systems at the College of Social Sciences is organizing a student field visit to the city of Abha entitled (Natural and Human Components in the Civilized City of Abha), during the period from 13- 22/10/2024.
The visit, which came under the supervision and follow-up of a faculty member in the Department of Geography and Geographic Information Systems, Dr. Ibrahim bin Muhammad Al-Alawi, aims to provide students with advanced field skills in physical and human geography through an integrated study of aspects of the geographical environment in the city of Abha with a focus on topography, climate, natural resources, and human activities, in addition to enabling students to have a more in-depth understanding of physical and human geography through direct interaction with the environment of the southern region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The ten-day visit includes field exploration, physical geography analysis, and study of human geography and environmental-economic relations.
In addition to organizing lectures and workshops for training on the use of GPS and geographic information systems (GIS) maps, exploring the local climate by collecting its data, such as: temperature, humidity, and wind in mountain sites and the valley, and analyzing weather phenomena with a focus on climatic effects on terrain, such as: erosion and mountain meanders.
The visit also analyzed agricultural activities by visiting local farms, studying coffee production, identifying irrigation patterns used, the impact of terrain on agriculture, studying economic activities in the Souda Mountains, the impact of terrain on tourism development, and studying existing tourism projects.
The city of Abha was chosen for the field visit due to its cultural importance geographically, and its link to the vision of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 2030, as one of the most important cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and has many natural and human components, making it an important hub for sustainable development, which will give students an opportunity to study and understand many natural and human variables.
Standing Committee on the Protection of Radiation and Environmental Pollution
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/committees/Pcpep/profile/Pages/default.aspx
To become the best and distinguished choice to provide awareness, guidance, training services, technical consultancy and scientific research in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution and to be a leader in possessing the necessary capabilities and expertise in accordance with international standards and quality standards. The Committee is also keen to provide distinguished services based on keeping abreast of the developments of scientific specialization, and is committed to the authentic scientific and educational heritage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
General Objectives
·Training faculty members, their assistants, researchers and employees of the university and its branches in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution.
· Training of public and private sector workers in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution.
· Training of civil society organizations and members in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution.
·Training students and graduates in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution.
·Spreading awareness of the dangers of radiation and environmental pollution within the university and its branches, developing the awareness of the surrounding community; and advancing the mission of
·Protection against radiation and environmental pollution.
·Establishing an integrated system of trained human cadres and devices at the university in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution.
Mission:
Applying radiation and environmental pollution protection systems and procedures at the level of the university and its branches, training faculty members, researchers and technicians in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution, spreading awareness of radiation protection and environmental health, and cooperating with the competent authorities to serve our country.
Vision:
To become the best and distinguished choice to provide awareness, guidance, training services, technical consultations and scientific research in the field of radiation protection and environmental pollution and to be a leader in possessing the necessary capabilities and expertise in accordance with international standards and quality standards. The Committee is also keen to provide distinguished services based on keeping abreast of the developments of scientific specialization and is committed to the authentic scientific and educational heritage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Green Youth Summit Event Towards Climate Goals
https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news-19-03-1443-01.aspx
In conjunction with the climate goals announced by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the Saudi Green Initiative to protect the environment and confront climate change, to reach zero neutrality by 2060, double efforts to reduce carbon emissions, and join the Kingdom in the global pledge on methane, for a safe, healthy and sustainable environment and to achieve the Kingdom's Vision 2030, the Deanship of Student Affairs at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University organized a visit to attend the Green Youth Summit event, nominating 214 students with the aim of Awareness of environmental issues.
The Green Youth Summit was launched to accelerate the pace towards achieving the climate goals, which corresponds to October 24, 2021, and is a platform to raise awareness of the importance of environmental issues and develop policies to address them, where participants seek to shape the future of climate efforts within the framework of interactive activities and intensive discussions, and the summit includes the establishment of workshops on the future of climate action, the formation of committees that include the most prominent youth activists, the implementation of cooperative activities on climate policies, and the summit is held to exchange ideas, stimulate and activate climate policy, and reduce carbon emissions even more. From 4% of global contributions, raising the quality of life.
The summit included dialogue sessions on energy sector youth and dedication of Saudi leaders to the voices of youth in the era of changes and transformations, a session to exchange roles and ask questions led by youth for climate action, a panel discussion on transformation change-maker to find special ways to lead and inspire positive environmental behaviors that are making a growing impact globally, a session to harness technology for a better future, three workshops entitled Increasing vegetation cover and rehabilitating degraded lands, a workshop entitled Protecting, Improving and Managing Marine Areas, and a workshop entitled Reducing Marine Areas. Carbon emissions and the circular carbon economy, and a plenary session on the development of education in order to train current and future environmental entrepreneurs and concluded with a panel discussion and live presentation on empowering the arts through renewable energy.
In conclusion, the student Samar Al-Zahrani expressed her great thanks to His Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for this great initiative, which aims to promote the Kingdom and a better environment, God willing, and also thanked the Deanship of Student Affairs for their nomination and selection as representatives of the university, and the student Asma Al-Makinzi added that it was a day full of enriching information and thanked the Deanship of Student Affairs for providing this opportunity and for facilitating a means of transportation to attend the summit.
Visit to the office of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture with the brightest men within the activities of the Environment Week
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/shis/shabeen-inst/news/Pages/%D8%B2%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D8%A5%D9%84%D9%89-%D9%85%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A8-%D9%88%D8%B2%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A6%D8%A9-%D9%88-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%A7%D9%87-%D9%88-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B2%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%B9%D9%87-%D8%A8%D8%B1%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%84-%D8%A3%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B9-%D8%B6%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%81%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A3%D8%B3%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A6%D8%A9.aspx
As part of the activities of the #البيئة Week is the essence of the earth and the secret of its life, a delegation from the Scientific Institute in Men's Alma visited the office of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the province of #رجال_ألمع #المعهد_العلمي_في_رجال_ألمع #جامعة_الإمام #المعاهد_العلمية #رجال_ألمع
To star it together
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/deanships/sa/news/Page
s/19-2-1439-1.aspx
The Deanship of Student Affairs, represented by the Deanship of Student Affairs under the supervision of the Department of Student Programs and Activities, organized a campaign entitled "To Star Them Together" on Tuesday, 18/2/1439 AH in Building (324-325).
It aims to educate students and urge them to clean the facilities of the university so that they are prepared for a clean and healthy learning environment, and a sense of responsibility towards the community and the environment, and to promote a culture of commitment to the cleanliness of the place, and the campaign has included many activities and competitions, including (thank you cards for the students who left the place clean as it was by removing the rest of their breakfast after breakfast, and distributing waste bags in the places where students gather to maintain the cleanliness of the place, And symbolic gifts to them in a gesture of your keenness to clean your place and put waste in the designated place is proof of your awareness and your paper).
This campaign comes as a contribution to achieving the vision of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 2030 in preserving the environment, achieving environmental sustainability and ensuring the cleanliness of the university and the surrounding environment.
Students of the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences Participate in Jakarta Cleaning Day
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/colleges/AISI/activities/Pages/active27-10-2016_1.aspx
On the morning of Sunday, October 16, 2016, based on the tolerant message of Islam, and in application of its great principles, and under the guidance of His Excellency the Director of the Institute, Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al-Daham, the Community Service Center of the Institute participated in a group of students of the Activity Society at the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences in Indonesia in the program of cleaning Jakarta, Mega Koningan area of South Jakarta, in coordination with some official bodies and government institutions in Indonesia, where the number of participants in the program reached 150 people, including 30 students from the Institute, the weight of the waste collected by the participants in the program reached 191 kg0 and this is considered one of the contributions and contributions of the Institute in the social services provided to the Indonesian community.
The effectiveness of my clean environment
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/shis/Baljurashi-inst/news/Pages/1-6-1439-1.aspx
The student activity at the Baljurashi Institute organized a campaign of guidance and cleaning of the Institute's courtyards with the participation of students, teachers and student counseling.
The campaign comes within the activities of My Clean Environment that are held in scientific institutes as one of the awareness programs that urge students to pay attention to cleanliness and care for the environment.
The activity also held a workshop on pollution, its danger and methods of prevention, which was moderated by Mr. Ghurramallah Abdullah, teacher of Jafravia at the Institute.
Professor Ghurramallah talked about taking care of the environment and the need to protect it from the danger of pollution and also listened to some of the students' interventions about pollution and its danger.
A lecture entitled "Towards a Better Environment" was also held for Professor Ibrahim Al-Khathami, Science Teacher at the Institute.
The awareness lecture aimed to raise the level of awareness towards the environment, promote positive behaviors and correct wrong behaviors towards the environment.
Saudi Environment on the Anniversary of the National Day!! *
https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news10-12-1436-2.aspx
The past decade has registered international interest in environmental affairs and protection, especially in recent years, where issues of environmental resource management, protection and development have been a priority in the policies and areas of cooperation of many States.
At present, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing a cultural, political and environmental consciousness, which gives natural and environmental resources great importance in the protection and conservation, so that this trend has become a direct impact on the thinking and lifestyle among its citizens. It is a trend consistent with the cultural heritage and sought by the Kingdom's national development plans, as it pioneered the incorporation of the principles of environmental awareness.
In all its development plans, the Kingdom has been keen to emphasize its interest in the environment and development through the contribution of the Department of Meteorology and Environmental Protection to the economic activity of the Kingdom, by providing information and advice regarding the protection of the environment, as in the second development plan, by providing and developing integrated environmental services as in the third development plan, and by supporting the contributions of individuals and institutions to the preservation of the environment as in the fourth development plan. The seventh strategic basis of the fifth development plan, and the tenth strategic basis of the sixth development plan, included urging the continuation of programs to preserve, protect, develop and prevent pollution from the environment.
International developments in the field of environmental conservation during the past two decades have coincided with the adoption of the development planning approach in the Kingdom, and the Kingdom has kept pace with these developments.
Perhaps the most important achievements in this area are the following:
First: Introducing environmental considerations in the selection of the sites of the most important industrial projects in the Kingdom, and in the design and operation of these projects, as the industrial communities in Jubail and Yanbu are an example of the integration of environmental and development considerations.
Second: Establishing the organizational and executive structures of the environmental protection and conservation bodies, such as: the Meteorological and Environmental Protection Authority, the National Authority for the Protection and Development of Wildlife, and planning and coordination structures, such as the Ministerial Committee for the Environment and the Committee for the
Coordination of Environmental Protection.
Third: Issuing national standards for the protection of the environment, and the commitment of most development projects to them.
Fourth: Issuing standard specifications to determine the emission of pollutants from cars and applying them to all cars imported into the Kingdom.
Fifth: Establishment of nature reserves for wildlife, national parks, and pasture fences to preserve biological and environmental diversity.
Sixth: The Kingdom's growing role at the regional level in the field of environment and marine environmental organizations of both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, and in the cabinets responsible
for environmental affairs in both the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League.
The economic expansion of the Kingdom and the achievement of rates of urban development have been accompanied by some unprecedented damage to natural resources and the environment, such as: pollution, health risks resulting from the inappropriate treatment of waste from industrial, agricultural and urban activities, air pollution in major cities and industrial zones, desertification, threats to wildlife as well as lack of groundwater reserves and low levels of quality.
As a result of these damages and their disadvantages to economic development, the State has established the Meteorological and Environmental Protection Authority, the National Authority for the Protection and Development of Wildlife, and the Supreme Authority for the Development of the City of Riyadh.
For example, the Higher Authority for the Development of the City of Riyadh, in its quest for integrated development balanced urbanly, economically and environmentally, is based on an integrated program for the management and protection of the environment in the city of Riyadh, and the Supreme Authority pays great attention to environmental considerations in the planning and design of the projects it undertakes, such as: the development of Wadi Hanifa, the reduction of the ground water level, the project of protecting wildlife, the completion of drainage networks, rationalization of irrigation water consumption, studying the causes of air pollution and water pollution in the city of Riyadh, and studying methods of solid waste disposal.
There is still an urgent need to develop solutions that help reduce obstacles and impediments related to the protection of the environment and to preserve it from degradation, depletion and pollution.
Prof. Dr. Zaid bin Mohammed Al-Ramani Economic Advisor
Member of the faculty of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University
Under the slogan "We protect our environment for the well-being of our society".
https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news-22-7-1440-1.aspx
Dr. Al-Arini inaugurates the Environment Week event in the city of female students
The Vice President for Female Student Affairs, Dr. Hanan bint Abdulrahman Al-Arini, inaugurated this morning (Thursday) 21/7/1440 AH the Environment Week event under the slogan "We protect our environment for the well-being of our community" in the lobby of Building (324), accompanied by the Deputy Deanship of Student Affairs for Female Students' Affairs, Dr. Ohood Al-Manea, and Dr. Al-Arini toured between the interactive corners, and briefed Her Excellency on the accompanying activities, listening to a brief explanation of the exhibits and awareness tools that come out of the keenness of Imam University to participate in this environmental week and enhance its awareness role The importance of preserving the environment and contributing to the reduction of pollution.
The Deputy Dean of Student Affairs for Female Students, Dr. Ohood Al-Manea, said that one of the most important objectives of this event is to educate students about environmental pollution, its consequences, and the extent of its impact on our society and our daily lives, and this event also aims to educate students about the types of plants and how to grow them, and take care of them, to increase environmental awareness among students.
The Environment Week event organized by the Vice Deanship of Student Affairs for Female Students' Affairs, in cooperation with the branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Riyadh region, included leaflets and awareness leaflets, paper educational leaflets, a board and environmental artworks, such as the impact of the environment on physical and psychological health, methods of consumption and the safe economy of the environment, which in turn contribute to raising the level of responsibility of students towards the environment, as well as a visual presentation entitled "We plant to live" that included the definition of plants and the causes of their death, agriculture and reproduction, seeds and fertilizers, as well as the method of irrigation Beneficial and harmful plants and insects.
The trainer, Ms. Asma Al-Sulaiman from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, participated in a workshop entitled: "Our land is green and our environment is clean" in which she addressed the foundations of the success of home farming, methods of caring for indoor plants, how to grow seeds, soil and fertilizers suitable for them, in addition to the problems faced by plants and their treatment methods. In terms of environmental practical application, the students participated in planting trees and caring for them, in addition to their participation in the cultural competition in the field of the environment, to which in-kind prizes were allocated.
Jeddah Institute Participates in Afforestation Campaign
https://units.imamu.edu.sa/shis/jeddah-inst/news/Pages/6-8-1440-7.aspx
Within the activities of the Environment Week and under the slogan "We protect our environment for the well-being of our society", the Scientific Institute in Jeddah Governorate participated in the afforestation campaign, which aims to maintain the ecological balance and combat sources of pollution, as well as to give an aesthetic character within the city as well as its contribution to improving the level of oxygen in the air, and a group of students of the Institute participated in this under the supervision and participation of Professor Talaa Al-Harthy.
Deanship of Student Affairs Activates (Saudi Green Initiative)
https://imamu.edu.sa/news/Pages/news-25-04-1443_2.aspx
In order to achieve the climate goals announced by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the Saudi Green Initiative for a Safe, Healthy and Sustainable Environment and to achieve the Kingdom's Vision 2030, the Deanship of Student Affairs at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, in cooperation with the Department of Technical Affairs, organized a volunteer opportunity for two days on Wednesday, November 24 for university students with the participation of (13) students, and on Thursday, November 25 for university students with the participation of (12) female students, in activating the initiative Green Saudi Arabia to raise vegetation cover by protecting and preserving the environment, facing the challenges of climate change and reducing carbon emissions, and combating pollution and land degradation, through the planting of a number of "acacia" trees inside the campus (the new faculty housing area), to chart the Saudi Green Initiative guiding the Kingdom in protecting the land and nature.
Imam Mohammad bin Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, plays a pivotal role in promoting Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) through various educational programs, research and initiatives focused on climate action. The university is committed to fostering environmental awareness, integrating disaster planning into its curriculum, and striving for carbon neutrality. These efforts not only enhance learning but also contribute significantly to the local community and society at large.
Local Education Programs and Campaigns
1.Environmental Education Initiatives: IMSIU has implemented a range of educational programs with The General Directorate of Technical Affairs that aimed at increasing awareness about environmental issues and climate change. The General Directorate of Technical Affairs plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental awareness and addressing climate change through a comprehensive range of educational programs. These initiatives include workshops, seminars, and community outreach events that focus on critical topics such as climate risks, sustainability practices, and the importance of conservation. Notable efforts include the "Saudi Green Initiative," which seeks to enhance vegetation cover and improve the environment,
alongside the seminar "Climate Change - Transformations towards Sustainability," focused on encouraging societal shifts towards more sustainable practices.
Additionally, the seminar "Environmental Sustainability, Climate Change, and Women's Empowerment" highlights the interconnection between the environment and women's rights, promoting their role in environmental leadership.
A significant component of these efforts is the Environmental Seminar hosted by the Environmental Awareness Initiative, which invites participants to a virtual seminar titled "ISO and Sustainable Development Goals." This seminar underscores the importance of international standards in achieving global sustainability goals, offering students deeper insights into how these standards align with environmental efforts.
Furthermore, the Environmental Workshop titled "Climate Change and Its Effects on Arab States" provides a critical platform for students to understand the unique climate challenges facing the Arab region, including desertification, water scarcity, and rising temperatures. This workshop encourages proactive community and student engagement to address these climate impacts.
University reports and social media updates indicate that these initiatives aim to equip students and community members with the knowledge and tools necessary to engage in effective climate action. By actively engaging with students and the broader community, the Directorate fosters a deeper understanding of pressing environmental issues and encourages proactive measures to mitigate climate change impacts. These initiatives not only enhance the educational experience for students but also empower them to become informed advocates for sustainability within their communities. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, the General Directorate of Technical Affairs promotes a culture of environmental stewardship, ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared to contribute to a sustainable future.
2.Disaster Planning Education: Understanding the vulnerability of the region to climate-induced disasters, IMSIU incorporates disaster planning into its educational programs. The university conducts training sessions and drills aimed at preparing students and community members for emergency situations, such as floods or extreme weather events.
The General Directorate of Security and Safety executed a periodic virtual evacuation plan, supervised by Civil Defense and involving various relevant authorities. This initiative highlights the commitment to comprehensive protection for individuals and facilities through detailed emergency plans. Participants included the General Directorate of Technical Affairs, the General Directorate of Media and Communication, and the University Medical Center. It forms part of the strategy to ensure the safety of university staff and students, offering practical training on proper emergency responses with a focus on safeguarding lives and property.
Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University's General Directorate of Security and Safety has published a safety guide, available online, covers fire prevention and response, handling hazardous chemicals, electrical safety, emergency evacuation procedures, regular safety training, and maintaining a safe campus environment through ongoing inspections and updates. Its goal is to prepare the university community for emergencies and promote a secure learning environment.
3.Commitment to Carbon Neutrality: IMSIU has expressed a strong commitment to achieving carbon neutrality
as part of its broader sustainability agenda. The university has initiated projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas 
emissions from campus operations and encourages sustainable practices among students and staff. Social media
posts from the university highlight various initiatives towards this goal, including energy efficiency improvements
and sustainable resource management. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University proudly participated in Saudi
Green Initiative Day on March 27, 2024. The university celebrated the Kingdom's ambitious vision for sustainable
development, environmental awareness, environmental protection, tree planting, and sustainable energy use, all contributing to a 
greener and healthier future for generations to come.
4.Collaboration with Local Authorities: The university's educational efforts are aligned with national strategies outlined in documents such as the National Environmental Strategy of Saudi Arabia and local disaster response plans. By partnering with local government and community organizations, IMSIU ensures that its programs reflect the needs and priorities of the local population, enhancing the effectiveness of its environmental initiatives. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University actively implements Saudi Arabia's 2018 National Environmental Strategy. This comprehensive plan, developed by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, prioritizes sustainable environmental, economic, and social development. It includes a thorough environmental assessment, a new institutional framework with specialized centers and increased private sector engagement, and a 15-year implementation roadmap. The university integrates the strategy's regulations and policies into its environmental management.
Saudi Arabia's national plan for responding to chemical and biological incidents details roles and responsibilities for various government entities across all emergency phases—prevention, preparedness, and response. Inter-agency coordination is a central feature of the plan. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University incorporates this national plan into its campus safety and emergency response protocols, ensuring its internal emergency plans align with the national strategy for a coordinated response with government agencies should a chemical or biological incident occur.
Impact on Society and Students
The impact of IMSIU's climate action programs on students and community members has been significant. Students participating in these initiatives benefit from enhanced knowledge about climate change, which empowers them to take active roles in environmental advocacy. Graduates emerge as informed individuals equipped with practical skills in disaster management and sustainability practices, positioning them as future leaders in their fields.
In the community, the university's outreach programs have increased awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. Community members involved in disaster preparedness training and sustainability campaigns report greater confidence in their ability to respond to climate-related challenges. This has led to increased community engagement and collaboration on environmental issues, fostering a collective commitment to sustainable practices.
