13 May 2024: The CEO and founder of Solar Water, Malcolm Aw, made a significant decision to cancel a $100 million contract with Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic megacity project. Initially drawn to Neom’s vision as a pioneering green energy “eco-city,” Aw’s ethical concerns led him to withdraw from the project, reports Business Insider. Neom, a cornerstone of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 initiative, aims to diversify the Saudi economy and establish a luxurious tourism and innovation hub.
Aw’s disillusionment stemmed from reports of alleged human rights abuses, particularly the bulldozing of villages to make space for the megacity. Despite having already constructed some desalination plants in the area, Aw was appalled by the forced evictions and destruction of villages, including schools and hospitals.
The BBC reported claims by exiled Saudi colonel Rabih Alenezi, who alleged that lethal force was authorized to clear land for Neom. Satellite images corroborated the destruction of villages, predominantly inhabited by the Huwaitat tribe. One villager, Abdul Rahim al-Huwaiti, was reportedly killed by Saudi authorities, according to the UN.
Aw’s company specializes in solar-powered desalination, aligning with Neom’s purported commitment to renewable energy and ecological preservation. Initially enticed by the opportunity to contribute to a green initiative, Aw felt Neom’s actions contradicted its original vision. He criticized the project for prioritizing exclusivity and luxury over environmental and social responsibility.
Neom’s planners envision an “eco-city,” with flagship projects like “The Line” designed to operate on renewable energy and preserve natural landscapes. However, Aw believes these promises are unfulfilled, with planners deviating from the city’s original ecological ethos.
Despite Neom’s refusal to comment on Aw’s claims, the Saudi government has faced mounting criticism over its Vision 2030 plans. Reports of cost overruns and delays have raised concerns about the project’s feasibility, with proposed revisions to population estimates and project scope.
Aw urged Neom’s planners to uphold their initial ethical and ecological commitments, emphasizing the potential of technology to address environmental challenges. However, he lamented the lack of vision and ethical resolve necessary to realize a truly sustainable future.
