Muscat – Oman has launched a long-term plan to plant 100mn trees by 2050 as part of efforts to enhance climate resilience, expand green cover and support food security.

Unveiled by the Environment Authority (EA), the Plant Oman 2050 initiative builds on existing afforestation and land rehabilitation programmes aimed at improving vegetation density and biodiversity across the country.

Dr Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maamari, Director of the Cultivation and Nurseries Department at EA, said the strategy aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the national target of achieving net-zero carbon neutrality by 2050.

The project includes identifying suitable afforestation sites, expanding nurseries and propagation centres, encouraging private investment and community participation, and deploying environmental monitoring technologies.

The initiative will prioritise sustainable afforestation, fruit-bearing trees to support food security, mangrove protection, green investment and the development of sustainable cities and governorates.

Al Maamari informed that the programme is expected to increase carbon absorption capacity, create employment opportunities and expand green spaces over the coming decade.

He noted that the National Plan to Combat Desertification 2018–2030 focuses on restoring degraded land, protecting natural vegetation, improving water-use efficiency and enhancing community engagement. “These efforts are now being integrated into the Plant Oman 2050 project, which represents a comprehensive national vision for environmental sustainability and climate action,” he said.

Under the national initiative to plant 10mn trees, launched in 2020 and ending in 2025, more than 59mn wild tree seeds have been sown and over 856,000 wild saplings planted. More than 652,000 saplings have also been distributed nationwide.

The programme has overseen the cultivation of more than 11.3mn mangrove trees. Survival rates stand at 76% for mangroves, 60% for wild trees and 86% for other distributed trees.

According to Al Maamari, the initiative has strengthened coastal ecosystems, increased blue carbon stocks and encouraged public participation in environmental programmes. Projects have included mangrove cultivation in coastal governorates, rehabilitation of degraded sites, protective green fencing and community planting campaigns.

“Studies conducted with universities and research institutions indicate that afforestation has improved vegetation cover in several governorates, particularly in mangrove areas. The research also highlighted the importance of selecting native species and adopting efficient irrigation methods,” he added.

Al Maamari said the initiative reflects coordination between government entities, the private sector and communities, adding that it represents a long-term investment in environmental sustainability.