Egypt is embarking on an ambitious journey to revitalize its dwindling forest cover. With increasing environmental pressures, the country recognizes the critical role of forests in combating climate change, desertification, and air pollution, hence, enhancing economic stability.

By adopting a comprehensive strategy, Egypt seeks to enhance the nation’s greenery while addressing issues, such as air quality and water resource management, and leveraging partnerships with the private sector and recent technology.

Egypt's Approach to Forest Cultivation

In 2010, Egypt had approximately 143,000 hectares (1,430 square kilometers) of tree cover, representing 0.15% of the country’s total land area. By 2023, this area had significantly decreased to about 35,000 hectares (350 square kilometers), according to Global Forest Watch.

To counter this number, Egypt aims to ramp up afforestation efforts in the upcoming years.

 The country has been actively pursuing national strategies and policies to enhance these efforts, focusing on both governmental initiatives and partnerships with private entities and the community.

One major initiative is the 100 Million Trees Initiative, launched by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This initiative aims to plant 100 million trees across the country to combat climate change, prevent desertification, and improve air quality. In June 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation reported a total of 3.1 million trees as part of the initiative.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Environment has developed a comprehensive guide to support afforestation plans. This guide emphasizes that each governorate plants trees suited to its climate and soil, ensuring both environmental and economic benefits.

Additionally, the country is leveraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) to reach its afforestation targets. Earlier in March 2025, Egypt explored a partnership with China's Sinoway Forest Technology Co. to introduce advanced forestry technologies. This collaboration will use innovative methods like seed ball technology to enhance biodiversity, promote sustainable land management, and combat climate change.

Economic Advantages of Expanded Forest Cultivation

Expanding forest cultivation in Egypt can have positive economic impacts. Hatem Abdelazim, a senior economist and public policy advisor, tells Arab Finance: “Forest cultivation can significantly enhance water resource management and provide substantial long-term economic benefits.”

“Forests regulate water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and improve soil fertility, thereby boosting agricultural productivity and supporting local farmers and food production. Sustainable timber production also ensures a steady supply for construction and manufacturing industries,” Abdelazim explains.

“The potential for increased eco-tourism arises from the allure of green landscapes, attracting visitors and creating job opportunities. Enhancing climate resilience through carbon sequestration can mitigate the financial risks associated with extreme weather events, which is essential for long-term economic stability,” according to Abdelazim.

Forests in Egypt provide wood for industries such as furniture. The furniture manufacturing sector alone contributed about 2.2% to Egypt's gross domestic product (GDP), according to the 'Summary of a Preliminary Feasibility Study on Furniture Manufacturing' published by the General Department of Feasibility Studies and Investment Costs Estimation at the General Authority for Investments and Free Zones (GAFI) in April 2024.

Forest cultivation further impacts paper production as well as non-timber products like aromatic oils and fruits, offering additional revenue streams.

On the other hand, “biomass energy production presents a significant opportunity. Utilizing forest residues for biofuel can reduce reliance on fossil fuels while creating new jobs in the renewable energy sector,” Abdelazim points out.

Forestry Revival: Challenges and Innovations

Egypt faces some challenges in the sustainability of forest cultivation, with water scarcity being the most pressing issue. However, the country uses treated wastewater to irrigate non-fruit-bearing trees for biofuels and wood production.

The government has utilized a maximum of 6.8% of its treated water to cultivate 24 forests, spanning an area of 11,100 feddans (45.0 square kilometers) in the desert surrounding sewage treatment plants, according to an article published by the Journal of the Egyptian Academy of Sciences in 2023.

Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies provides great opportunities for enhancing afforestation in Egypt. Abdelazim highlights, “Technology is undoubtedly a game-changer in making forest cultivation more economically viable, particularly in a country like Egypt. For instance, advanced irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater reuse significantly optimize water usage, which is crucial in arid regions.”

Modern forestry management also relies on advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), remote sensing, and geographic information system (GIS) mapping, to monitor forest health, optimize planting strategies, and combat illegal logging.

Similarly, improvements in wood processing technologies, including sawmilling and drying, minimize waste and elevate timber product quality, boosting their competitiveness in global markets, according to Abdelazim.

Additionally, Abdelazim states, "Biotechnology plays a significant role in developing drought-resistant and fast-growing tree species, ensuring sustainable and profitable forestry. Blockchain technology can also contribute to transparency in supply chains, which promotes sustainable practices and boosts confidence in Egyptian forest products."

Egypt's concerted efforts to revitalize its forest cover is a vital step towards addressing pressing environmental challenges while fostering economic growth. Through strategic partnerships with the private sector and adopting innovative technologies, Egypt is not only restoring its dwindling forests but also generating significant economic benefits.

By Sarah Samir