Hazard- Desertification and Drought
Resilience in the Desert: King Abdulaziz International Airport’s Measures Against Drought and Desertification
Strategies for Managing Arid Climate Challenges
Keywords
King Abdulaziz International Airport, commonly known as Jeddah Airport, is the main international airport serving the city of Jeddah and the nearby holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Located approximately 19 kilometres north of Jeddah, it is the busiest airport in Saudi Arabia and one of the largest in the Middle East.
The airport covers an area of 112 square kilometres, features three operational passenger terminals and serves as a major hub for Saudia, the national flag carrier. In 2023, the airport handled over 42.7 million passengers, reflecting its important role in connecting Saudi Arabia with the rest of the world.
JED faces significant challenges due to drought and desertification, which are prevalent in the arid climate of Saudi Arabia. The harsh conditions also pose risks to infrastructure, as prolonged droughts and high temperatures can cause wear and tear on buildings and runways.
These challenges have prompted the airport to implement various measures to mitigate the impacts of desertification and drought, ensuring sustainable operations and resource conservation. JED has implemented some measures to address these challenges.
Sustainable Water Management
- The airport uses treated wastewater for irrigation purposes, reducing reliance on fresh water sources.
- Implementation of water-saving technologies in restrooms and other facilities to minimise water usage.
Drought-Resistant Landscaping
- The airport has transitioned to using native and drought-resistant plants in its landscaping to reduce water consumption.
- Smart irrigation systems are used to ensure that water is applied only when necessary, optimising water use.
Green Building Standards
- Sustainable Design: New terminal buildings and renovations are designed to meet green building standards, which include measures to reduce water usage and improve overall sustainability.
Afforestation and Vegetation Cover
- Saudi Green Initiative: As part of the broader Saudi Green Initiative, the airport is involved in efforts to increase vegetation cover and combat desertification. This includes planting trees and shrubs that are suitable for the arid climate.
King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah monitors the effects of drought through various advanced methods. The airport employs sophisticated weather monitoring systems to track drought conditions, providing real-time data on temperature, humidity, and precipitation levels. Satellite imagery is utilised to assess the extent of drought and its impact on the surrounding environment, revealing changes in vegetation and water bodies. Interactive drought maps, such as those provided by the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), offer detailed information on drought conditions and their impact on transportation infrastructure.
Regular assessments of airport infrastructure, including runways and pavements, are conducted to check for damage caused by drought-related factors like soil shrinkage and heat. Additionally, the airport collaborates with meteorological agencies to receive timely updates and forecasts on drought conditions, aiding in proactive planning and mitigation of potential impacts. These measures ensure that King Abdulaziz International Airport can effectively manage and mitigate the effects of drought, maintaining safety and operational efficiency.
The results
The measures implemented by King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to address drought and desertification have shown promising results. The adoption of drought-resistant landscaping and advanced irrigation systems has significantly reduced water consumption. These initiatives have not only conserved water but also maintained the aesthetic appeal of the airport grounds, demonstrating the effectiveness of xeriscaping in such a challenging environment.
Moreover, the airport’s collaboration with local authorities to ensure a reliable water supply during prolonged drought conditions has been crucial. This partnership has helped mitigate the impacts of water scarcity, ensuring that the airport’s operations remain uninterrupted. The broader sustainability management plan, which includes measures to improve air quality, reduce energy use, and manage waste effectively, further supports the airport’s resilience against environmental challenges.
