Experts warn Kuwait can no longer ignore effects of climate change

Experts warn Kuwait can no longer ignore effects of climate change

By Faten Omar

KUWAIT: Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences and Kuwait Aid Network organized on Wednesday a panel discussion on climate change and the quality of life in Kuwait. “Countries around the world have committed to reducing their carbon emissions and limit their effect on climate change. In Kuwait, we can no longer ignore its effects. As a country, we have already experienced its effects on our coastal settlements,” Municipal Councilmember Sharifa Al-Shalfan said.

“Another effect is that Kuwait is now experiencing heavy rains during a short period of time, which places a large strain on the infrastructure, especially our rainwater drainage systems. We need to think of using porous materials that absorb water to alleviate the stress on infrastructure. It is also important to reuse the excess water, especially with our hot and arid climate,” she pointed out.

“Our urban plan must prioritize its effect on the environment in terms of where we allocate residential and commercial areas, and how we link them through transport. The trick is to minimize transport distance and introduce multiple modes of transport alongside cars, such as an efficient public transport network, bike lanes and walkable streets,” Shalfan said, stressing on the importance of prioritizing