Kuwait dives into marine protection on World Oceans Day

Kuwait's commitment to safeguarding its marine environment was highlighted on World Oceans Day, June 8, as the Kuwait Dive Team (KDT) launched a series of coastal cleanup campaigns and environmental initiatives. Affiliated with the Environmental Voluntary Foundation, the KDT collaborated with the Environment Public Authority (EPA) to protect the nation's wildlife and marine ecosystems.

Waleed Al-Fadhel, the team leader, stated that the activities aligned with this year's World Oceans Day theme, “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet.” The efforts included clearing beaches, removing hazardous waste and abandoned fishing nets from critical marine areas, and collecting more than five tons of dead fish. One notable intervention involved responding to an environmental report at Al-Bidaa beach, where divers meticulously removed large quantities of dead small fish from the shoreline to prevent foul odors and reduce decomposition risks.

The cleanup operations extended to Fahaheel Marina, where abandoned fishing nets, substantial plastic debris, ropes, and wood posing threats to marine life and hindering boat movement were removed. Furthermore, the campaign reached Kuwait Bay, a crucial natural habitat for fish and marine species in the Arabian Gulf. In partnership with the EPA's Jahra Reserve administration, the team cleared significant amounts of plastic waste and discarded fishing nets from the reserve's coastline, aiding in the protection of migratory birds.

Al-Fadhel stressed that the preservation of Kuwait's marine environment is a collective responsibility, requiring unified action from government agencies, the private sector, fishermen, and the general public. He urged for the adoption of responsible environmental practices, such as proper waste disposal and adherence to fishing regulations, to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources for future generations.

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Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet