Riyadh's COP16 Green Zone Offers Innovative Experience for Environmental Awareness

The Green Zone at the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) in Riyadh, open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM until December 13, is expected to draw over 200,000 visitors to experience a range of artistic, recreational, cultural, and educational activities geared towards all age groups.
 Upon arrival at the reception area, visitors can explore a heritage exhibition in a traditional tent where they can savor Saudi coffee. Here, they learn about falconry traditions and henna painting while enjoying musical performances. An additional pavilion is dedicated to showcasing traditional clothing.
 Inside the zone, visitors will come across the live mural section where a local artist will display an initial concept in a harmonious artistic composition, working to complete the "COP16" painting over 13 days and inviting visitors to join in.
 Moreover, visitors can view a display of 12 types of wild plants, such as jujube, acacia, and wild olive. They can also walk through gardens in various areas featuring artistic columns decorated with native climbing plants, giving a local touch to the environment.
 In another area, visitors may engage in coloring local engravings on mud walls, showcasing the art of decorating and restoring mud houses—a prevalent architectural style in rural areas of Saudi Arabia. Visitors have the opportunity to participate by using colors inspired by the conference's theme, in an activity emphasizing the connection between art, culture, identity, and sustainability.
 Another outdoor activity includes the carbon footprint scale, aiming to raise environmental awareness by illustrating the impact of daily choices on the environment. By interacting with the scale, visitors learn about the effects of their choices, symbolizing balance or imbalance between consumption and sustainability.
 Additionally, visitors may observe artists demonstrating gypsum carving techniques, emphasizing the fusion of art and sustainability. This interactive corner showcases cultural symbols reflecting the authenticity and sustainability of traditional crafts.
 A dedicated space has been created for green mosaic, featuring the work of Saudi artist Faisal Aboud. In this inviting space, visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in creativity, crafting mosaic pieces inspired by the stunning beauty of nature, with a particular focus on the lavender fields that embody the rich national identity of the Kingdom.
 Music enthusiasts can also explore the live music area featuring authentic Saudi music performed by three talented Saudi musicians. Each day, they will captivate audiences with over 190 minutes of performance using three unique instruments. This immersive experience is further enhanced by a stunning backdrop of four iconic landscapes from across the Kingdom: Soudah, Brodan, Wadi Al-Disah, and Taif.
 Furthermore, visitors have the opportunity to watch captivating live performances in the crafts area, where six skilled artisans will demonstrate three traditional crafts: Sadu weaving, wickerwork, and wooden door artistry. Over the course of 370 minutes, these craftsmen will create works inspired by ancient cultural heritage, underscoring the significance of these crafts in promoting sustainable lifestyles and their vital role in cultural expression.
 The roving shows are also a main attraction in the Green Zone, offering a captivating glimpse into the richness of world cultures. Featuring the participation of 245 artists from 14 countries, these shows present over 150 performances of Saudi and international folklore. Each day, audiences can enjoy 13 performances, each lasting 15 minutes.
 The Green Zone is an innovative and inclusive public space designed for civil society organizations, NGOs, businesses, youth groups, and other stakeholders. It hosts a variety of events, exhibitions, workshops, and discussions that address land degradation, desertification, and drought.
 The zone aims to foster public participation, education, and knowledge exchange, showcase innovative solutions, and encourage dialogue on sustainability.
 It boasts the active participation of over 213 international and local entities, including governments, companies, and community initiatives, providing valuable opportunities to strengthen collaboration among international, regional, and Saudi stakeholders.
 The Green Zone will host four major forums: the Water Sustainability for a Green Future Forum from December 3 to 13; the Saudi Green Initiative Forum from December 3 to 4; the International Forum for Afforestation Technologies from December 6 to 8; and the Sustainability Innovation Week from December 9 to 11.
 Registration for the Green Zone is available at https://www.unccdcop16.org/green-zone?lang=en.