The Saudi National Center for Environmental Compliance is implementing changes to standardize environmental investment permits through a new digital platform. The initiative aims to improve efficiency in processing environmental assessments and compliance monitoring across industrial sectors.
According to Abdullah Al-Kaabi, Director of Permits at the Center, the updated system will evaluate approximately 3,500 activities based on their environmental impacts and interactions with ecological receptors. The classification system has been developed in accordance with the General Authority for Statistics’ national economic activity guidelines.
Data from 2023 shows the Center processed 6,700 environmental permits for construction and operational projects, while accrediting 140 environmental consulting firms. The new framework includes:
- Standardized assessment protocols
- Digital permit processing
- Environmental compliance monitoring
- Integrated management systems
- Data analysis tools
The updated activity classification system is scheduled for implementation by the end of the first quarter, providing guidelines for environmental impact assessments and compliance requirements across sectors.
These changes are part of broader efforts to align environmental protection with development activities through regulatory processes and monitoring systems. Environmental consulting firms and investors will need to adapt their procedures to meet the new standardized requirements.
