In a bold step towards enhancing Egypt’s environmental sustainability, Dr. Manal Awad, the country’s Minister of Local Development, has unveiled the ongoing progress of the “100 Million Trees” initiative. The program, which seeks to plant millions of trees across Egypt, is designed not only to improve urban aesthetics but also to address critical environmental issues such as air pollution and urban heat islands.
The initiative is centered around the planting of trees along key highways, with a particular focus on the Cairo Ring Road, spanning across the governorates of Cairo, Giza, and Qalyubia. Dr. Awad emphasized that this project is a key component of Egypt’s broader environmental strategy, aiming to reduce carbon emissions, lower temperatures in densely populated urban areas, and improve air quality through enhanced green spaces.
The program also incorporates a significant sustainability element by utilizing treated wastewater for tree irrigation, effectively addressing the challenges of water scarcity. In addition, the initiative promotes community involvement by encouraging public-private partnerships for the ongoing care and maintenance of the planted trees.
“Not only are we investing in the future of our cities, but we are also fostering collaboration between various stakeholders, from local authorities to environmental organizations, to ensure the success and longevity of the project,” Dr. Awad explained.
The planting process has already begun in select locations in both Cairo and Giza. Notably, areas around the Asmarat Bridge and the Maadi Ring Road in Cairo are among the first to receive green additions. In Giza, the project is underway near the intersection of the Amr Ibn al-As Axis and Al-Haram Street. The initiative is expected to cover several other sites along the Ring Road, with the goal of creating a greener, more sustainable urban landscape.
The project’s success hinges on the collaboration between the Cairo and Giza Cleaning and Beautification Authorities, the Agriculture Directorates, and local water companies, who are all tasked with ensuring proper maintenance, irrigation, and long-term care for the newly planted trees. The initiative also takes into account the aesthetic aspects of urban planning, carefully selecting plant species and arranging them to enhance the visual appeal of the surrounding areas.
The “100 Million Trees” initiative is part of Egypt’s broader efforts to tackle climate change and create more sustainable, livable cities. It is aligned with the government’s environmental policies, which are being executed with the guidance of the Ministries of Environment, Housing, and Agriculture, as well as local authorities. Dr. Awad further noted that the project reflects the commitment of the Egyptian government to fulfilling global environmental targets and creating a greener future for generations to come.
In a nation grappling with rapid urbanization and environmental challenges, this initiative marks a significant step forward in transforming Egypt’s urban spaces into more resilient, sustainable, and green environments.
