Collaborative Action: How Kuwait’s Public and Private Sectors Are Joining Forces to Slash Carbon Emissions and Achieve Climate Goals

Kuwait is stepping up its game in the fight against carbon emissions. The public and private sectors are joining forces to make strides in environmental sustainability. This collaboration is not just a trend; it’s a crucial step towards meeting global climate goals.

Recently, key players from both sectors shared insights on their initiatives. Narjes Al-Hajj, a chemical engineer at the Public Authority for Industry, pointed out the industrial sector’s commitment to cutting carbon emissions. They’re focusing on modern technology and cleaner fuels. According to her, the National Industrial Strategy of 2035 is in place to enhance sustainability, aligning with both international standards and Kuwait’s plan to reduce carbon by 2050. Interestingly, while the industrial sector only contributes 2.15% to carbon emissions, the energy and water desalination sectors are major players, responsible for a staggering 95.8% of emissions.

Asmaa Al-Sallal, a Senior Engineer at the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, discussed recent efforts aimed at reducing emissions in desalination plants. The ministry has introduced advanced technologies that recycle CO2, resulting in the prevention of around 1,221 tons of carbon from entering the atmosphere each year. This initiative not only helps the environment but also cuts costs in boiler construction and fuel use.

Dalal Al-Ajmi, leading the Climate Change Department at the Environment Public Authority, reiterated Kuwait’s commitment to the United Nations’ climate agreements. The country aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, with an immediate goal of reducing emissions by 7.5% by 2035. Key strategies include increasing renewable energy use, enhancing energy efficiency, and exploring eco-friendly transportation options. Notably, Kuwait is focusing on the Circular Carbon Economy, which encourages reducing, reusing, and recycling carbon emissions. A significant initiative under this plan is mangrove reforestation, where each tree can absorb up to 12.3 kilograms of CO2 annually.

On the energy front, the Kuwait Oil Company has ambitious plans to capture 26 million tons of CO2 each year by 2050, starting in 2030. This project will utilize geological reservoirs to store captured carbon, which can also aid in oil and gas extraction, further cutting the carbon footprint.

The Kuwait National Petroleum Company is also active in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Its flare gas recovery units are helping lessen emissions significantly at refineries, and the company plans to expand these efforts to improve energy efficiency across the board.

In the academic realm, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences is working on a significant plan called the “White Paper for Energy Transition.” This roadmap outlines a shift towards a sustainable energy system, aiming to create $392 billion in economic opportunities while cutting down carbon emissions. Initiatives include planting 340 million trees and transitioning 75% of vehicles to electric or hybrid models.

EQUATE Petrochemical Company is also making waves with its carbon capture project, having already captured over 735,000 tons of CO2. They plan to ramp up their efforts to capture 4.3 million tons by 2050, supporting Kuwait’s green initiatives.

Moreover, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research is pioneering technologies that produce turquoise hydrogen to help heavy industries lower their carbon footprints. They are also innovating methods for recycling CO2, particularly in concrete production, cutting emissions by 30% and further promoting a circular carbon economy.

These collaborative efforts highlight Kuwait’s dedication to environmental sustainability and its international climate commitments. By investing in clean technologies and efficient practices, Kuwait is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.