1. Saudi Arabia is planning a zero-carbon region called The Line in its Neom development project.
2. Neom is working with Volocopter on electric flying taxis for transportation.
3. Saudi Arabia has indicated it won’t phase down fossil fuels despite promoting sustainability in its projects.
Saudi Arabia is focusing on building a sustainable zero-carbon region in its Neom development project called The Line. This unique project aims to create a futuristic city with renewable energy sources and innovative transportation solutions, such as electric flying taxis developed in collaboration with Volocopter. Despite promoting sustainability, Saudi Arabia has indicated that it will not phase down its fossil fuel usage.
The Neom project, which includes various futuristic regions with plans for technologically advanced infrastructure, such as a floating port city and a yachting hub, is a massive endeavor costing over half a trillion dollars. Among these regions, The Line stands out as a 105-mile-long city with a mirrored facade that aims to house nine million residents in a vertical garden city setting with an emphasis on green living.
Neom is also investing in aviation initiatives to support its goal of becoming a prominent tourist destination. This includes collaborations with companies like Boom Supersonic for sustainable aviation fuel initiatives and Volocopter for the development of electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing aircraft. The project envisions a future where electric aircraft play a vital role in transportation, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.
While Saudi Arabia is making efforts to promote renewable energy within its borders, it is also heavily invested in the global oil market. The country has hinted that it will continue exporting fossil fuels despite its domestic sustainability initiatives, showcasing its complex relationship with both green energy and traditional energy sources. This dual approach highlights the challenges countries like Saudi Arabia face when balancing environmental concerns and economic interests.