Saudi Arabia, known for its advanced technology and AI, is moving forward with its $500 billion smart city project, NEOM. With a size of 26,500 square kilometers, NEOM is not just another megacity—it’s a complete rethinking of how cities should be built. However, recent events have caused people around the world to worry. Scientists are concerned that NEOM’s latest finding could harm the climate of our planet.
The Line, a 170-km-long city in NEOM, has caused concern among climate experts. The large size and new design of these projects are not only changing the environment but could also be affecting wind, humidity, and rainfall in the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, and the Red Sea.
Donald Wuebbles, who advises NEOM on climate, has expressed serious worries. He pointed out in the Financial Times that the project could upset local weather patterns and cause environmental problems. He pointed out that you can change the weather and climate in your area, mentioning the risks of different rainfall, possible storms, and the effects of cement-based construction emissions.
Wuebbles has not urged a halt to the project, but he emphasized that dealing with these environmental issues should be given top priority. He also pointed out that there has been little academic research on NEOM’s environmental effects, which worries many scientists.
With NEOM’s progress, the risks to the environment are increasing. Climate scientists are not against new technologies; they only ask that we make sure these technologies are sustainable. NEOM represents the future, but if urgent environmental studies are not done, its development could harm the environment. Many are now watching to see if we can find new solutions without harming the environment.
