Environment Authority: Ozone Layer Protection Key to International Environmental Cooperation

From Zuhra Al-Kahtani, Kuwait City, 16 Sept (KUNA) -- The Public Authority for Environment (PAE) affirmed today, Wednesday, that the protection of the ozone layer is one of the most prominent areas of international environmental cooperation, highlighting Kuwait’s steadfast support for international efforts aimed at preserving this vital layer and mitigating the impacts of ozone-depleting substances.

Marking the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, which falls on Wednesday, Sheikhha Al-Ibrahim, Director of the Public Relations and Media Department at the PAE, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that this annual observance, held on September 16, highlights global progress in this field and reaffirms the commitment to continue joint environmental action.

Al-Ibrahim added that the ozone layer serves as a crucial natural shield for the Earth, protecting living organisms and humans from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. She noted that its preservation stands as an important model of successful international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges, requiring sustained commitment to international agreements and the enhancement of sound environmental practices.

She explained that Kuwait is committed to international efforts to protect the ozone layer through the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which together form a vital international framework for reducing and gradually phasing out ozone-depleting substances.

The PAE plays a key role in monitoring environmental commitments related to ozone protection by coordinating with relevant authorities, tracking substances subject to international controls, and supporting the transition toward environmentally safer alternatives and practices, in line with Kuwait’s obligations under international environmental agreements.

She emphasized that Kuwait’s efforts in this area align with its broader strategy to enhance environmental protection and achieve sustainability, underscoring the importance of integrated roles among government entities, the private sector, and related institutions, as well as raising public awareness about the importance of reducing the use of ozone-depleting substances and handling them in accordance with approved environmental standards.

She further noted that the PAE continues to fulfill its role by supporting national and international efforts to protect the ozone layer, enhance environmental awareness, and monitor compliance with the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol, thereby contributing to the protection of Kuwait’s environment and supporting global efforts to achieve a more sustainable environment for current and future generations. (End) Z.H.R