Red Sea Global unveils model targeting net positive conservation benefit by 2040
- Feb 26
- 2 min read
Riyadh, February 26, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Red Sea Global unveiled a science-based model designed to deliver a 30% net positive conservation benefit across its regenerative destinations by 2040, and said the framework will be made available for global adoption, according to a press release.
Chief Executive Officer John Pagano said the company set out to elevate tourism in a way that benefits people and nature. He said disclosing how the 30% net positive target will be achieved at The Red Sea and AMAALA is intended to share the approach and enable others to contribute to environmental protection.
The proprietary SIIG Model is built on four iterative stages: Survey, which establishes biodiversity baselines and long-term monitoring; Identify, which assesses risks and pressures affecting priority species and habitats; Intervene, which implements evidence-based actions including regulating fishing and enhancing natural habitats; and Gain, which measures and verifies biodiversity improvements through a conservation outcomes assessment system.
In a report released alongside the announcement, Red Sea Global detailed application of the model across The Red Sea and AMAALA, drawing on an environmental baseline study conducted in 2022 and 2023 covering eight marine habitats and priority species groups. The framework is intended to align conservation actions and evaluate projected outcomes against a no-action scenario to support decision-making and resource allocation.
As an example, the report highlighted a proposed Fishery Management Area initiative in Al-Wajh Lagoon spanning 5,015 square kilometres. The plan designates 38% as priority conservation areas, including 62% of coral reefs, with 61% allocated for sustainable fishing and 1% reserved for special management zones. Modelling indicated that eliminating fishing pressure in high-protection areas could increase reef fish populations by 113%, shark and ray populations by 72%, and marine mammals by 24%.
Red Sea Destination Executive Director Ihab Kindi said the approach is based on scientific principles, precise data and measurable outcomes, describing the model as a roadmap for large-scale ecosystem recovery and documenting the return of marine life.
The methodology is set out in a report titled The SIIG Model A Roadmap Toward Achieving Measurable Conservation Gains, available at:
