Red Sea Global collaborates with local communities to enhance coastal conservation through sustainable mangrove restoration projects.
This interview with Tarik Alabassi, Senior Director Environmental Programs and Majed Badr Shaabein, Senior Specialist in Social Development at Red Sea Global (RSG) the company’s dedication to environmental conservation through its mangrove planting initiative, involving over 100 volunteers. We discuss the program’s significance for RSG and the local community, the role of collaboration, and the future of coastal ecosystem restoration efforts.
Saudi Projects: The mangrove planting initiative gathered over 100 volunteers including the local community, alongside students and representatives from various organizations. What was the significance of this event for Red Sea Global and the local community?
Majed Badr Shaabein: This initiative stands out due to the extensive collaboration among a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, all working together to achieve a lasting impact on our environment. It serves as both a benchmark and a stepping stone for future initiatives. Key contributions were made by several teams such as but not limited to the Mobility team providing transportation for the volunteers, the Community Management team preparing the location and supplied refreshments, and the Red Sea Security team ensuring the safety and organization of the event.
Additionally, WAMA and Akun teams offering kayaking experiences for the volunteers, the Creative team developing a unique and visually striking theme, Red Sea Studios documenting the activities, and the Communication and PR teams amplifying our message, extending our reach far and wide. Social and Environment teams played a central role in managing and organizing the initiative. This initiative exemplifies our core values of collaboration and responsibility. By working closely with our internal teams and external partners, we were able to maximize the initiative’s reach and impact. It underscores the power of teamwork in achieving our shared goals for both people and the planet.
Saudi Projects: Mangroves play a critical role in coastal ecosystems. Could you share some insights on why Red Sea Global is so committed to the conservation of mangroves, and how this aligns with broader environmental goals?
Tarik Alabassi: Red Sea Global (RSG) is deeply committed to the conservation of mangroves due to their invaluable ecological and environmental benefits. Mangroves not only stabilize shorelines and reduce erosion, but they also act as natural buffers against storm surges and extreme weather events, protecting coastal areas from the devastating impacts of these forces. According to scientific studies, mangroves can reduce wave height by up to 66% over a distance of 100 meters, offering significant protection to coastal communities.
Coastal ecosystems around the Red Sea face significant environmental challenges
Additionally, mangroves are critical habitats for a wide range of marine and terrestrial species. It’s estimated that more than 75% of commercially fished species in tropical regions depend on mangroves at some stage of their life cycle. This biodiversity supports local fisheries and contributes to food security for coastal populations.
From a climate resilience perspective, mangroves are among the most effective natural carbon sinks, capable of sequestering up to 10 times more carbon per hectare compared to terrestrial forests. Research suggests that mangroves store an estimated 6.4 billion metric tons of carbon globally, making them vital in the fight against climate change. By conserving mangroves, RSG is actively contributing to climate mitigation efforts, aligning with broader international environmental goals such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement.
RSG’s mangrove conservation efforts also integrate sustainable tourism development, ensuring that the natural environment is preserved while promoting ecotourism initiatives. This approach not only protects these ecosystems but also creates educational opportunities for visitors, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of mangroves in maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems.
This commitment positions RSG at the forefront of biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development, aligning with global environmental goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 (Climate Action) and 14 (Life Below Water).
Saudi Projects: Collaboration with local organizations like Green Umluj was a key component of this initiative. How important is it for Red Sea Global to work with local NGOs, and what value does this bring to your environmental and community-focused projects?
Majed Badr Shaabein: The answer to this question is rooted in your first mentioned word: collaboration—one of RSG’s core values, which demonstrates the incredible outcomes we can achieve when people unite for the planet. Our work with Green Umluj highlights the crucial role of raising local environmental and sustainability awareness, while also showcasing the Social Development Department’s efforts to engage the local community in our regenerative tourism vision. By actively involving local NGOs and local community, we ensure a lasting and meaningful impact that aligns with our sustainability goals. This approach reinforces our commitment to develop both people and planet.
Saudi Projects: The event also saw participation from students in the English for Tourism program. How does engaging students in such initiatives contribute to their educational experience and the development of future tourism leaders in the region?
Majed Badr Shaabein: Engaging students with our employees offered them a valuable opportunity to overcome barriers and build their self-confidence. It also reinforces RSG’s commitment to sustainability-driven tourism, with initiatives like these at its core. The program included an awareness session for volunteers about the importance of mangroves, helping students to understand the critical role they play by participating in such initiatives. This not only enhances their knowledge but also strengthens their connection to environmental conservation efforts.
Saudi Projects: In your opinion, what are the biggest environmental challenges facing coastal ecosystems like those around the Red Sea, and how does Red Sea Global plan to address these challenges in the long term?
Tarik Alabassi: Coastal ecosystems around the Red Sea face significant environmental challenges primarily due to natural causes. These include overfishing, which depletes marine biodiversity; climate change, leading to rising sea levels and increasing water temperatures; reduced rainfall affecting freshwater inputs; the absence of nutrient transfer, which disrupts marine productivity; and overgrazing of coastal vegetation, which damages habitats.
RSG addresses these challenges through its value-driven approach and regenerative tourism concept, emphasizing restoration and long-term environmental regeneration. One of the critical strategies includes the Mangrove Project, focusing on expanding and restoring mangrove forests within Alwajh Lagoon. RSG also emphasizes conservation area establishment, rewilding programs, and implementing strict biosecurity protocols to protect native species and ecosystems. Their long-term approach incorporates continuous ecological assessments, adaptive management, and technological innovations like GIS monitoring and real-time data, ensuring the resilience and health of coastal ecosystems.
Saudi Projects: Looking forward, are there other conservation or community-focused initiatives Red Sea Global is planning to undertake? How can the local community continue to be involved in these efforts?
Majed Badr Shaabein: Absolutely! It’s not a question of if we will, but rather when and how. The Social Development team is actively planning multiple initiatives, particularly focused on volunteerism and CSR, aimed at creating a positive, sustainable impact and enhancing local awareness and engagement in driving positive change with various stakeholders. By leveraging various communication tools, such as surveys, focus group discussions, and the Jewar app, we will connect with the local community, listen to their feedback, and take action. This ensures that their voices are heard and translated into meaningful initiatives that align with their needs and aspirations.
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