KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait is reinforcing environmental sustainability as a key developmental priority, integrating it into national strategies through collaborative partnerships and ambitious long-term plans. Guided by the vision of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the nation is accelerating efforts to position sustainability at the core of its socio-economic growth.
Over the past two years, Kuwait has pushed forward a low-carbon development roadmap, backed by its Cabinet and led by the Ministry of Oil and the Environment Public Authority (EPA). The plan focuses on flexible, innovative solutions in circular carbon economy and green investment, all contributing to Kuwait’s 2035 Vision and broader environmental preservation goals.
The EPA launched Kuwait’s 2050 Low-Carbon Strategy in partnership with the UN Environment Programme. It positions Kuwait as the second Gulf country to adopt a national decarbonisation pathway, targeting carbon neutrality by 2060. Initiatives under the plan include scaling renewable energy, transitioning from fossil fuels to natural gas, and investing in waste-to-energy solutions.
Kuwait is also strengthening cooperation with China to advance MoUs on green recycling systems, energy infrastructure, and sewage treatment technologies. Notable efforts include the landmark Shagaya Renewable Energy Park, aiming to produce 1,600 MW across two phases, alongside energy codes requiring 10 percent renewable output from facilities.
The EPA’s recent environmental status report—developed with UN input—addresses seven focal areas, including climate change, biodiversity, water resources, and marine ecosystems. It supports Kuwait’s drive to meet international climate standards, including commitments under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol.
Locally, four major strategic environmental projects were launched, covering waste management, desertification prevention, national control systems, and urban sustainability. These initiatives support public-private partnerships and promote performance indicators for a cleaner environment.
Kuwait’s Fourth Structural Plan (2040 Master Plan) further reinforces the transition to sustainable urban planning, prioritising green buildings and energy efficiency. In line with this, legislation to protect air quality and biodiversity is being enforced, including penalties for polluters.
Campaigns to expand green coverage, led by the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources, aim to combat desertification with native tree planting, artificial barriers, and smart land reallocation.
Internationally, Kuwait’s role in the 2022 Middle East Green Initiative Summit and continued engagement with regional and global stakeholders reflect its active leadership in climate action. UN officials have praised Kuwait’s advancements in sustainability and its commitment to building a resilient, eco-friendly future.
