RIYADH: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals is collaborating with a local company to enhance its green spaces by planting 50,000 trees. The initiative, in collaboration with Net Zero Environmental Services Co., is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1,560 tons per year in this area, according to a statement issued by the parties. On Dec. 29, an agreement was signed to launch the project, in the presence of Mohammed bin Imad Al-Sheikh, chairman of Net Zero, and Nidal Al-Ratrout, vice president of the university. This project aligns with the Quality of Life Program, the Saudi Green Initiative, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Trees play a major role in reducing temperatures in cities, up to 7 degrees Celsius. They absorb moisture and counteract air pollution and greenhouse gases that cause global warming. Al-Ratrout said: “We commend the distinguished role of the university and its keenness to stimulate awareness and community efforts to preserve the environment. We are ready to face this challenge and aim for the university to be carbon-free by 2050. “We thank the Net Zero company for enhancing the participation of all age groups to volunteer for environmental sustainability and community improvement.” Al-Sheikh highlighted the country’s commitment to connecting these issues with educational institutions and universities to combat climate change. He added that one way to achieve this is by increasing vegetation cover and reducing carbon emissions. The agreement also includes naming trees after university employees to promote a culture of sustainability. Al-Sheikh said the plan is to monitor the environmental impact of each tree.