In light of the demographic shifts taking place in cities around the world and the worsening climate crisis, they are also becoming hotspots for socio-economic inequalities that disproportionately affect certain communities. By adopting a comprehensive approach, the Kuwait Environment Protection Society participated in the training workshop “Sustainable Cities: Research Policies” implemented by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences over two days.
The association’s representative at the workshop, Engineer Yousef Abdul-Redha Al-Ramzi, Vice President of the Environmental Engineers Team and its official spokesperson, confirmed that “the workshop aimed to analyze the complex relationship between social and economic factors and spatial dynamics, using a variety of data visualizations to enhance discussions about the sustainability challenges posed by urban expansion.”.
“Through studying national and international case studies – along with their challenges, stakeholders, policies, and relevant metrics – the workshop explored the different dimensions of urban sustainability,” M. Al-Ramzi explained, noting that “it highlighted various methods and tools to better understand urban inequalities and promote a more sustainable, equitable, and just approach to urban planning and design, with a particular focus on Kuwait. Participants engaged in discussions and practical exercises to examine the role of research in shaping sustainable policy decisions.”.
He continued, noting that “this event is an effort to promote multidisciplinary cooperation and to present practical proposals for a more sustainable Kuwait. The two-day workshop, entitled “Sustainable Cities: Data-Led Policies and Research,” brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to explore strategies for addressing the impacts of urbanization on sustainability through data-led policies and research.”.
Mr. Yousef Al-Ramzi noted that “the first day focused on presenting international and national case studies, while the second day dealt with research methodologies. Dr. Alexandra Gomez led both days, through case study presentations, multidisciplinary discussions, and practical analysis, to provide participants with the necessary tools to meet the challenges of urban sustainability.”.
