Saudi Companies Iyris and Red Sea Global Launch Regeneration Initiative

Iyris and Red Sea Global have launched the National Food Production Initiative in Saudi Arabia to support local farmers and regenerate unproductive land. This initiative aims to boost the domestic economy and reduce the Kingdom's dependence on imported food. "This project aims to transform the Kingdom's potential to sustainably improve its food security and secure the future of locally sourced food production," said John Keppler, Executive Chairperson of Iyris. The initiative utilizes Saudi-based agricultural technology in a 0.75-hectare sustainable farming facility in the Bada area, revitalizing previously unproductive agricultural land. This facility provides fresh produce to Red Sea Global resorts. "Bada serves as a case study for local farming communities and a scalable model for growing local produce," Keppler added. Raed Albasseet, Group Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer at Red Sea Global, emphasized the initiative's role in creating a local food supply chain, reducing their carbon footprint, and meeting guest expectations for high-quality, locally-sourced food. Partners include Sabic, Napco National, and several academic institutions.