KUWAIT CITY, Jan 18: In a significant address during the opening of the Second Gulf Forum for Development and Sustainable Project Management, the Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, Maha Al-Asousi, underscored the critical need to advance waste management systems, heighten awareness levels, and showcase cutting-edge methods in waste management, energy production, and recyclable materials.

Representing the Minister of Electricity, Al-Asousi addressed the pressing challenges posed by escalating waste rates globally, exacerbated by rapid technological advancements. She emphasized that the surge in waste has led to environmental pollution, affecting countries worldwide, particularly in the Arab region. Al-Asousi highlighted the severe repercussions of this phenomenon, including the spread of diseases, disruptions in ecosystems, climate change, desertification, and global warming.

Al-Asousi urged concerted efforts to address these challenges, calling for the development of waste management systems and an increase in awareness levels. She asserted that the Second Gulf Forum for Development and Sustainable Project Management serves as a testament to Kuwait's commitment to sustainable development, emphasizing the nation's focus on recycling waste, reducing quantities, and fostering energy generation through green smart cities.

The forum's primary objectives include identifying optimal solutions and technologies to mitigate the impacts of population growth and the ongoing urban and economic development in Kuwait and the Gulf countries. Al-Asousi emphasized that recycling processes contribute significantly to environmental preservation, pollution reduction, resource and energy conservation, consumption reduction, enhanced operational efficiency, and protection of lands from harmful substances.

The overarching goal is aligned with Kuwait's national strategy and vision for a new Kuwait, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive risk and safety management system. The forum brings together scholars, and local, and international experts to share insights and explore avenues for sustainable development. Al-Asousi expressed hope that the forum's discussions and presentations would yield tangible benefits and contribute to the realization of Kuwait's vision for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.