The Kuwait Environment Protection Society considered that “wetlands have been and still are an open chapter for teaching children and youth a lot of theoretical and practical environmental sciences on the ground.” This came on the occasion of World Wetlands Day, which this year carries the slogan “Protecting wetlands for our common future.”.
In this context, the Secretary-General of the Association, Jenan Behzad, stressed the importance of protecting wetlands in Kuwait, given their vital role in supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
Behzad said in a press statement: “Kuwait’s wetlands, including mudflats, salt marshes, and coastal wetlands, are rich environments that support marine ecosystems and provide natural habitats for migratory birds. These areas not only filter pollutants but also play a key role in reducing coastal erosion.”.
She noted that “Kuwait has established a number of key protected areas to safeguard these important ecosystems, including the Jahra Nature Reserve, which spans 250 hectares and is home to a wide variety of birds, as well as being an important center for environmental research. The country also includes the Doha Peninsula Nature Reserve, which spans 450 hectares in Sulaibikhat Bay and is distinguished by its unique biodiversity, in addition to Bubiyan Island, the largest island in Kuwait, which provides a rich environment for marine life and migratory birds, as it is part of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Marine Reserve.”.
She emphasized that “Kuwait’s wetlands face increasing challenges due to urban expansion, pollution, and climate change.” She added, “Rapid infrastructure development and the untreated disposal of sewage have degraded these natural environments, and climate change events such as rising temperatures and extreme weather are further exacerbating the fragility of these ecosystems.”.
Janan Behzad stressed “the need to take immediate action to ensure the sustainability of these natural environments,” noting that “the Kuwait Environment Protection Society supports efforts to implement Environment Law No. 42 of 2014, in addition to implementing restoration projects in the Jahra Reserve, and promoting environmental awareness through cooperation with non-governmental organizations.”.
She concluded her statement by saying: “Preserving wetlands must be a national priority, as they are not only an environmental treasure for Kuwait, but also a natural legacy for future generations.”.
