RIYADH: The Saudi Green Building Forum is set to obtain permanent observer status following the submission of a formal request to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. Pending a final decision during the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties to be held from Dec. 2-13 in Riyadh, this move underscores the forum’s efforts to enhance its role in sustainable development and combat desertification. The forum, which has already been temporarily accredited, is involved in the proceedings based on the provisions of paragraph seven of article 22 of the convention and articles six and seven of the internal regulations of the COP, according to a press release. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate scientific and community-based approaches to environmental management. Commenting on the development, Faisal Al-Fadl, secretary-general of the Saudi Green Building Forum, said: “We are pleased with the official notification from the UN Secretariat of the receipt of the required documents after a thorough review of the documents submitted for the accreditation of the forum as the first Saudi institution specialized in preparation for obtaining observer status for the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification,” he stated. “The efforts of local communities play a significant role in enhancing the sustainable development goals for people, plants, and prosperity through advocating for human experiences based on scientific rules and community health and well-being for healthy, fair, and resilient communities and cities, sufficient consumption and production, climate action in removing harmful carbon, and reducing the temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius, addressing desertification, and managing natural resources and water,” he added. The UN Secretariat confirmed the receipt of all necessary documents for the forum’s accreditation as an observer, encouraging further participation in the convention’s activities. “After a thorough review of the documents submitted by your institution, we encourage you to continue participating in the implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification and keep the secretariat informed of the activities,” the letter stated. The Saudi Green Building Forum’s potential new status as a permanent observer at the UN Convention will enable it to contribute more effectively to global efforts against desertification, leveraging cooperation between developed and developing nations, particularly in sustainable land management and environmental restoration.