Nouf Bahbahani: Kuwait is keen to enhance its capacity to address climate change and transition to a green economy

Nouf Bahbahani, Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Environment, affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing its capacity to address climate change and develop solutions to manage its impacts, as part of its journey toward a more sustainable and resilient green economy.

She made these remarks in a statement to KUNA following her participation in the “Women and Climate Summit” held during the “Oman Climate Week 2026,” organized by the Oman Environment Authority with the participation of officials, experts, and specialists from 50 countries.

Bahbahani noted that, driven by this commitment, Kuwait prepared the “National Roadmap for Low-Carbon Development” in November 2025, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. This initiative supports the country’s shift toward a more sustainable and resilient economy capable of withstanding the impacts of climate change.

Regarding the theme of “Women and Climate,” Bahbahani emphasized that women are a fundamental part of the future of climate action. She clarified that women are not only among the groups most affected by the consequences of climate change but are also key partners in developing solutions, strengthening adaptive capacity, and leading the green transition.

She stated that “Kuwait recognizes the magnitude of the climate challenges facing our communities, including rising temperatures, an increase in dust storms, and extreme weather events, along with their resulting health, social, and economic impacts.” In this regard, she highlighted the “distinguished” presence of Kuwaiti women in confronting these challenges, “not only through their community roles but also in the fields of science, technology, engineering, research, and environmental innovation.”

In her address at the “Women and Climate Summit,” Bahbahani pointed out that Kuwaiti women have a prominent presence and active participation in various tracks of environmental and climate work. This includes preparing national communications and transparency reports, participating in science, research, and innovation, and engaging in institutional work, as well as holding leadership positions in climate-related roles within the Public Authority for Environment.

She stressed the importance of increasing women’s participation in climate action in the coming phase, transitioning their role from mere presence to leadership, decision-making, innovation, and green entrepreneurship.

From this perspective, Bahbahani reaffirmed the State of Kuwait’s commitment to continuing the empowerment of women and enhancing their participation in all aspects of environmental and climate work, as well as expanding international cooperation for knowledge exchange and capacity building.

She expressed her hope to see more women in climate leadership positions, as well as in research and development, clean energy projects, the circular economy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.

Bahbahani also participated in a panel discussion titled “Women in Climate Action: Challenges, Resilience, and the Path to the Future,” alongside regional officials and specialists in the environmental and climate fields. The session featured discussions on climate change from a humanitarian and societal perspective, highlighting the role of women in addressing challenges and strengthening resilience.

The second edition of “Oman Climate Week 2026” launched in Oman on Monday. The three-day event aims to support climate action, enhance sustainability efforts, and accelerate the implementation of climate solutions, with broad international participation.

The week’s program includes a variety of activities and programs discussing national and regional priorities in climate action, with the participation of hundreds of exhibitors, speakers, experts, decision-makers, and specialists in climate and environmental sustainability.

The regional environmental event also features networking platforms, partnerships, and bilateral meetings among participating entities, in addition to the “Women and Climate Summit” and the “Youth and Climate Conference.” These components provide opportunities to explore cooperation, exchange experiences, and showcase projects and initiatives related to climate action.

The second edition of “Oman Climate Week” aims to strengthen national and international partnerships in climate action, support innovation and practical solutions, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience. This contributes to achieving Oman’s goals in sustainability and climate action, and enhances its presence in related regional and international efforts.