King Abdulaziz University demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring the sustainable use of aquatic resources, in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The University’s work under SDG 14 reflects an integrated approach that connects education, research, community engagement, and national partnerships to advance marine sustainability and address environmental challenges.
The SDG 14 efforts encompass a wide range of impactful initiatives, including:
Strengthening marine education and scientific expertise: through specialized academic programs, advanced courses, and hands-on training that build national capacity in marine and environmental sciences.
Community outreach and awareness: featuring school programs, awareness campaigns, coastal clean-ups, and initiatives promoting sustainable fishing practices and reducing overfishing.
Field-based conservation and research: such as coral reef and turtle protection programs, marine ecosystem rehabilitation projects, and collaborations on sustainable aquaculture and innovative marine technologies.
Pollution reduction and water management: including advanced wastewater treatment systems, water reuse initiatives, and campus-wide efforts to minimize plastic waste through pioneering recycling programs.
Preservation and restoration of local ecosystems: through mangrove planting, biodiversity monitoring, and active participation in national environmental events and coastal protection campaigns.
Strategic collaborations: with government agencies and environmental organizations to support research, enhance sustainability practices, and contribute to national marine conservation goals.
Through these initiatives, King Abdulaziz University plays a leading role in advancing SDG 14, fostering environmental stewardship, empowering future experts, and supporting the long-term protection of marine life and ecosystems.
KAU publishes and reports all events and data that are related to SDG14, mainly online on the SDG related page, or as part of its strategy, as well as other dedicated reports, to monitor and control the sustainability goals’ improvement within KAU and as part of KAU’s alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
All the data that is related to SDG14 “Life Below Water” is openly available and can be fetched from the below channels:
King Abdulaziz University contributes to supporting SDG 14 through a wide range of scientific, field, and community-based efforts that reflect its strong commitment to marine sustainability and the protection of aquatic ecosystems. The University’s key efforts include:
Offering specialized academic programs in marine sciences and environmental studies.
Providing hands-on training and field projects in marine biology, coastal studies, and water resources.
Preparing qualified national specialists capable of managing aquatic ecosystems.
Conducting research on coral reef protection, water quality, and marine pollution reduction.
Developing innovative solutions in aquaculture and coastal management technologies.
Implementing applied studies through specialized research centers.
Organizing beach clean-ups and mangrove planting programs.
Implementing initiatives to protect sea turtles and coral reefs.
Participating widely in national events related to marine and coastal conservation.
Delivering school programs and awareness campaigns on marine pollution and overfishing.
Launching plastic-reduction initiatives such as the “Don’t Throw It… Endow It” program.
Hosting activities that promote responsible environmental behavior in the community.
Leading aquaculture initiatives that contribute to national food security.
Offering training programs in sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
Establishing agreements with the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and other environmental authorities.
Collaborating on coastal protection and habitat conservation projects.
Supporting national policies aimed at preserving marine life and ecosystems.
The below areas explain, in details, how KAU is approaching this SDG while enhancing aspects related to Life Below Water.