The ambitious Neom project in Saudi Arabia will have negative effects on the climate, according to an expert

The construction work currently underway in Saudi Arabia for the massive Neom project is unprecedented. Buildings like The Line are transforming the desert landscape at an impressive pace. According to Donald Wuebbles, an expert in atmospheric physics and chemistry, the scale of the work could even modify local weather conditions. Here’s why.

According to a report from the Financial Times, Donald Wuebbles has expressed concerns regarding the size of the numerous projects in Neom, which could negatively disrupt local weather systems. Indeed, while we know that cities can create an urban heat island effect, the issue here is similar but on an even larger scale. “The harmful effects could include unpredictable changes in rainfall patterns and sandstorms, as well as amplified winds,” the physics expert explained.

Moreover, the largest part of Neom is The Line. It will stand 500 meters tall, stretch 170 kilometers long, and feature a reflective exterior that could pose problems for local wildlife, particularly birds.

Donald Wuebbles added: “I am also concerned about the environmental impact of the construction process itself and the resulting emissions. For instance, 20% of global steel is used just for the construction of The Line, while a massive concrete factory is also being built to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s ambition of becoming a tourism hotspot.”

However, the potential negative effects of this project on the climate do not seem to deter its progress. Furthermore, in the Saudi desert, the futuristic mega-project The Line continues to take shape.