08 August 2025 at 05:12 pm IST
Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has launched an innovative environmental project that converts palm waste into high quality organic fertilizer. This initiative not only combats the widespread issue of waste burning, which poses ecological hazards, but also addresses the pressing need for soil enrichment and improved agricultural practices in the region. To date, the project has processed over 50,000 cubic meters of organic waste, converting it into fertilizer that has reached more than 1,300 farmers and benefited over 3,000 individuals. It has also played a significant role in rehabilitating over 3,000 hectares of degraded farmland, contributing to land restoration and productivity. Beyond its environmental advantages, the program delivers clear economic and climate benefits. The produced fertilizer contains 52 percent organic matter, improving both soil fertility and water retention. The project has cut chemical fertilizer use by up to 30 percent, reduced overall water consumption, and sequestered approximately 0.57 tonnes of CO₂ for every tonne of fertilizer produced, equating to the annual emissions of over 6,300 vehicles. In its capacity building efforts, RCU has conducted training workshops, benefiting more than 240 farmers and students with best practices for organic fertilizer application.
