Dr. Wijdan Al-Aqab, President of the Kuwait Environment Protection Society, emphasized Tuesday the critical need for innovative solutions to combat desertification in Kuwait, warning of its escalating environmental and economic impacts during a workshop marking World Day to Combat Desertification.

Key Recommendations from the Workshop:

1. Land Rehabilitation: Restore degraded areas using treated wastewater for urban greening projects

2. Regulatory Measures: Strengthen grazing controls and monitor human activities in sensitive zones

3. Technology Adoption: Implement remote sensing to identify at-risk areas and precision reclamation plans

4. Protected Areas: Expand natural reserves like Sabah Al-Ahmad Nature Reserve - home to 40+ native plant species and migratory birds

Alarming Statistics:

• UNEP estimates prevention costs are 5x lower than desertification damages

• 1 billion people across 110 countries affected globally, including Gulf states

Expert Testimonies:

• Dr. Ahmed Murad identified dual threats: climate factors (rising temperatures, scarce rainfall) and human activities (overgrazing, poor vegetation cover)

• Dr. Wafa Behbehani showcased reserves' triple role: biodiversity protection (200+ species in Kuwaiti reserves), research, and sustainable development

• Dr. Ahmed Al-Qasabi presented climate change research using geospatial tech, proposing 22 rainwater harvesting sites to prevent soil erosion

Call to Action:
The workshop concluded with urgent recommendations for:
✓ Strengthening international environmental commitments
✓ Enhancing community awareness programs
✓ Implementing sustainable afforestation
✓ Fostering public-private partnerships