Kuwait Environment Public Authority: Kuwait keen to activate its role in international agreements to protect the ozone layer

Kuwait City, 16 September (KUNA) -- The Kuwait Society for the Protection of the Environment (KSPE) reaffirmed the commitment of the State of Kuwait, represented by numerous relevant authorities, to fulfill its obligations and activate its role in international conventions and their associated protocols concerning the protection of the ozone layer.

Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the occasion of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, observed today, Wednesday, KSPE board member Dima Al-Adwani stated that Kuwait has prepared and implemented numerous projects and programs at both the national and regional levels in this regard.

Al-Adwani emphasized the importance of the role and efforts of government bodies, companies, institutions, civil society organizations, and the international community in addressing climate change, repairing the climate system, and protecting the Earth to restore its balance. She noted that such efforts are crucial for maintaining recovery and safeguarding the ozone layer.

She explained that the ozone layer acts as a protective shield that absorbs harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun, thereby protecting and preserving the health of humans, animals, and plants, and preventing the spread of diseases such as skin cancers.

She added that the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment, which primarily focus on protecting the ozone layer by taking measures to limit global production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances with the aim of eliminating them, have demonstrated that collective action can yield benefits for the climate, economies, and populations worldwide, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals.

The KSPE is keen to include ozone layer protection issues and related international conventions in its awareness and training programs. Its specialized programs have covered the 1985 Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, highlighting the link between international commitments and national environmental legislation and policies.

Furthermore, through its magazine "Al-Bi'ah" (The Environment), the society has maintained continuous awareness efforts regarding ozone depletion by publishing scientific materials that explain the causes of ozone erosion, the chemicals affecting it, and the risks associated with increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation. It also highlights the importance of reducing pollutants and protecting air quality.

Al-Adwani confirmed that the society will continue to utilize its training, media, and awareness programs to disseminate correct environmental knowledge and enhance the role of civil society institutions in supporting national and international efforts aimed at protecting the atmosphere and the ozone layer.

She noted that the United Nations established this day to phase out ozone-depleting substances, protect the climate, and commemorate the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987. She added that the theme for this year’s celebrations is "Global Action for a Cooler Planet." (End) Z.H.R