Diriyah Company is participating in the UNCCD’s 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16), which will take place for the first time in Riyadh under the theme “Our Land, Our Future.” Its participation in the conference marks its inaugural involvement in this global gathering through its special pavilion in the Green Zone.
Through its participation in the Green Zone, Diriyah is showcasing several pioneering projects being developed in Diriyah. These projects are distinguished by the highest standards of sustainability and quality of life, highlighting how Diriyah is developing a global destination capable of adapting to climate change and becoming one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly cities globally.
Additionally, ongoing efforts to achieve environmental sustainability within the Diriyah project, which is among the foremost projects focusing on sustainability and preservation of natural resources in the Kingdom.
The project encompasses over eight public parks and more than 20 kilometres of tracks for horses, bicycles, and walking. Additionally, it features the planting of over 6.5 million indigenous trees, plants, and shrubs across the project.
The project will also provide a comprehensive sewage treatment plant, along with two mobile water treatment units and over 4,000 electric car charging stations.
To date, the project has achieved over 10 certifications in a range of sustainability pillars, with assets aiming to achieve 30% energy savings and 50% water savings in some cases, including the Platinum Level LEED for Cities Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the first project to do so in the Middle East.
Jerry Inzerillo, GCEO of Diriyah Company, remarked on the company’s involvement in the conference, emphasising that “Our participation in COP16 will serve as a significant opportunity to showcase our pioneering projects which embody our commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.
“Our achievements in the development of the Diriyah project as the Kingdom’s most important heritage and cultural destination and our efforts to develop sustainable solutions for substantial energy and water savings underscore our ability to realise a sustainable future for generations to come. We take pride in our contribution to the Kingdom’s efforts to address global environmental challenges.”
He added, “The conference serves as a worldwide forum for collaboration aimed at fostering a sustainable future. We anticipate establishing robust partnerships with governments, international organisations, and major companies in this field to share expertise and knowledge and create innovative solutions to tackle the challenges posed by climate change.
“We will continue to work with our partners to contribute to the preservation of our planet, as the Diriyah project is a living example showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainability.”
In its ongoing efforts to achieve a more sustainable future, Diriyah Company recently obtained two Mostadam sustainability certifications under the Ajwad Initiative in recognition of its endeavours in the development projects of Northern Diriyah and Ritz-Carlton Residences.
Through its participation in a significant event that includes 197 countries, Diriyah Company is reaffirming its commitment to achieving the highest levels of sustainability in its current and future projects. It will also seek to explore avenues for collaboration in environmental sustainability and identify the latest land protection technologies, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.