In a bid to accelerate critical research and innovative solutions addressing land degradation, drought and desertification, Saudi Arabia has launched the Young Researchers Award at the COP16 Science Pavilion, with a total prize pool of $70,000.
A total of seven awards of $10,000 each will be given to early career researchers (up to age 35) who can demonstrate impactful and significant contributions to key areas, such as land management, drought resilience and land restoration. The award categories are land restoration, sustainable agri-food systems, equitable land governance, community and youth engagement, science, technology and innovation, resilience and climate adaption, and finance and sustainable land investments.
The awards will be presented at an event during the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP16 in Riyadh. Nominees will be flown to Saudi Arabia and provided five days of accommodation. Winners will also be given a unique opportunity to be mentored by leading experts.
“Land degradation, drought and desertification are leading causes of many issues impacting people around the world, be it food insecurity, water insecurity or forced migration”, said Dr. Osama Faqeeha, Deputy Minister for Environment, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and Advisor to the UNCCD COP16 Presidency. “COP16 in Riyadh is an opportunity to find urgent solutions, and help turn the tide on these global crises.”
The international competition encourages applicants to demonstrate innovative approaches, long-term sustainability and scalability, and focus on how their work can benefit the Middle East. Submissions are open until 22nd November and will be evaluated by a dedicated scientific committee that includes leading experts in Saudi Arabia.
As 40 per cent of land is already degraded according to the UNCCD, Saudi Arabia’s incoming UNCCD Presidency is seeking to mobilise international efforts and cooperation to deliver multilateral action on a range of pressing issues, including land restoration and drought resilience.
Researchers and innovators are encouraged to submit their work through the official award website here