‘Qassim Land' Emerges as Global Platform for Responsible Consumption, Production

Riyadh, August 20, 2025, SPA -- Qassim Region, renowned for its fertile plains and world-famous dates, has emerged as a Saudi model blending agricultural heritage with modern sustainability under the patronage of Qassim Region Governor Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz. The “Qassim Land” initiative was launched to promote green cities and the circular economy in support of Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production.

The initiative focuses on advancing production methods, recycling, and utilizing agricultural waste, in addition to expanding exports to international markets. The Saudi Green Building Forum presented this experience in July at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum, showcasing it as a Saudi success story in localizing sustainable development goals and linking them with the circular economy.

Saudi Green Building Forum secretary-general Eng. Faisal Alfadl stated that the Qassim governor’s initiative has been documented through a standardized framework that enhances innovation and sustainability. He emphasized that the circular economy is no longer an option but a necessity to ensure food and environmental security.

The Qassim date industry, branded as the “Arab Silk Road,” reaches global markets. Prince Faisal bin Mishaal announced the launch of the “International Date Route” as the first global pathway linking the date industry with the historic Silk Road, targeting exports of more than 578,000 tons annually. The step aims to solidify the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for date trade and a supporter of Saudi Vision 2030.

In this context, the Saudi Green Building Forum, under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, will host its 15th edition in 2025 at Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk) in Riyadh. The event will bring together more than 3,000 participants and 50 prominent international speakers across 20 specialized sessions, with the participation of leading companies including Saudi Aramco, Nesma & Partners, Climatech, Roshan, and Shaker Group.

The sessions will explore challenges facing green cities and propose innovative nature-based solutions, fostering multilateral agreements and connecting businesses, industries, and local experiences with the global agenda. The forum will be held October 1-2 under the theme “Activating Green Action through Nature-Based Solutions, Urban Sustainability, and Multilateral Agreements in light of Saudi Vision 2030.”