Hail: Red Sea Global (RSG) today revealed its science-based model designed to achieve a 30% net positive conservation benefit across all its regenerative destinations by 2040. The framework of the model will also be made available for adoption and application globally, according to a press release issued by the RSG today.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Red Sea Global's CEO John Pagano affirmed that the company set an ambitious vision from the outset to elevate the tourism sector in a way that benefits both people and nature. He explained that disclosing in detail how a 30% net positive impact will be achieved at 'The Red Sea' and 'AMAALA' destinations aims to share this approach and enable others to contribute toward securing a better environment for future generations.
The company's proprietary SIIG Model forms the cornerstone of its regenerative approach. The model follows a comprehensive methodological framework consisting of four interconnected and iterative stages. It begins with Survey, establishing robust biodiversity baselines and tracking changes through long-term monitoring programs. This is followed by Identify, which assesses key risks and pressures affecting priority species and habitats. The third stage, Intervene, implements targeted, evidence-based actions ranging from regulating fishing activities to enhancing natural habitats. The final stage, Gain, focuses on measuring and verifying biodiversity improvements through a dedicated conservation outcomes assessment system.
In its report issued today, Red Sea Global details the application of the SIIG Model across 'The Red Sea' and 'AMAALA,' drawing on one of the region's most comprehensive environmental baseline studies. The study covered eight marine habitats and priority species groups during 2022 and 2023. The framework serves as a unified roadmap aligning ongoing and planned conservation actions, while evaluating projected outcomes against a no-action scenario, thereby ensuring informed decision-making and optimized resource allocation for environmental sustainability in Saudi Arabia.
For example, the proposed Fishery Management Area initiative in Al-Wajh Lagoon represents a central intervention measure, spanning 5,015 square kilometers. The zone designates 38% as priority conservation areas, including 62% of coral reefs, alongside 61% allocated for sustainable fishing and 1% reserved for special management zones. Scientific modeling indicates that eliminating fishing pressure in high-protection areas could result in a 113% increase in reef fish populations, a 72% rise in shark and ray populations, and a 24% growth in marine mammals.
These findings point to strong ecosystem recovery pathways, accompanied by improved ecological functions supporting coral reef health, seabirds, and large marine species. Additional benefits include restoring natural processes that enhance coral resilience, reducing bycatch risks for sea turtles, improving prey availability for seabirds, and mitigating the impacts of invasive species.
Meanwhile, Red Sea Global's Red Sea Destination Executive Director Ihab Kindi emphasized that the regenerative approach is rooted in scientific principles, precise data, and measurable outcomes. He described the SIIG Model as a practical roadmap for large-scale ecosystem recovery and for documenting the return of marine life.
The full methodology of the model has been presented in a new report titled: 'The SIIG Model: A Roadmap Toward Achieving Measurable Conservation Gains.'