Strengthening biodiversity & water management to reduce impacts

Aramco is minimising the environmental footprint of its operations through investments in biodiversity protection, advanced water stewardship, air quality measures, and circular economy practices

- BY ABDULAZIZ KHATTAK

BALANCING the world's energy needs with the urgency of protecting fragile ecosystems is one of the defining challenges of the 21st century.

Saudi Aramco is positioning its operations within this complex space by placing biodiversity, water stewardship, emissions control, and circularity at the centre of its environmental management strategy.

With a stated ambition to create a “net positive” impact on natural habitats and shared resources, Aramco is expanding its conservation portfolio, embracing advanced technologies, and aligning its efforts with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and global frameworks such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Aramco has expanded its biodiversity protection areas (BPAs) from 14 in 2023 to 28 in 2024, covering some 1,900 sq km.

These areas now host 844 documented species of plants and animals, including 386 plant species, 300 birds, and 46 mammals.

Protected zones include wetlands, coastal lagoons, and significant new areas such as Jana Island in the Arabian Gulf and Asfar Lake in Al Hasa National Park.

At Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary, Aramco has supported the reintroduction of Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, and red-necked ostriches, marking progress in national rewilding efforts.

Meanwhile, the 31 sq km Abha BPA in the Asir highlands has been developed as a habitat for the Nubian ibex and other endemic species.