Kuwait City: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) announced that hosting the Stockholm Convention Regional Center for Training and Technology Transfer for West Asia solidifies Kuwait's position as a leader in global environmental initiatives. This strategic move is expected to establish Kuwait as a pivotal regional platform for managing chemical risks and waste.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Mohammad Al-Otaibi, Coordinator of the regional center and scientific researcher at KISR, emphasized that the center provides technical and training services to West Asian countries. It acts as a liaison between the three environmental agreements, particularly the Stockholm Convention, and member states by offering technical support, technology transfer, updated information, and aiding in the implementation of national action plans and periodic country reports.
Dr. Al-Otaibi highlighted that the center has conducted several regional training workshops since its inception. Currently, preparations are underway for a comprehensive workshop scheduled for October 2025 at KISR headquarters. This event will feature participation from GCC and West Asian countries, alongside international experts, to discuss newly added chemicals such as PFAS, UVA328, and PCBs, their assessment methods, and reporting mechanisms.
He also noted that KISR, through the regional center and in collaboration with national entities such as Kuwait's Environment Public Authority (EPA), recently completed an updated survey of banned chemicals in Kuwait and submitted a comprehensive report to the conventions' secretariat. The center is now preparing an inventory of newly listed substances to meet the timelines set by member states.
Dr. Al-Otaibi explained that the center's work plan for 2024-2027 encompasses eight primary areas: organizing extensive training workshops, implementing national research projects, updating national implementation plans (NIP), establishing a regional database, assessing newly listed chemicals, regional coordination, and preparing periodic reports.
He stressed that cooperation with international agencies and organizations like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) enhances the center's capabilities, facilitates technology transfer, and expands its regional impact. This cooperation supports Kuwait's environmental commitments and provides unique opportunities for national capacity building.
Furthermore, Dr. Al-Otaibi mentioned that KISR's participation in the Conferences of the Parties (COP) to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm conventions held in Geneva from April 28 to May 9, 2025, was a vital opportunity to showcase Kuwait's efforts in this area. It contributed to the adoption of key decisions, including the listing of new chemicals, updating technical guidelines, and initiating joint compliance programs.
He emphasized the strategic value of the center for Kuwait, not only as a scientific and training hub but also as a crucial tool for protecting public health and local and regional environments. He noted that support from Kuwait's leadership and cooperation from national stakeholders has enabled the center to efficiently fulfill its role.
Dr. Al-Otaibi concluded by stating that the center significantly contributes to developing national human capital, providing scientifically sound alternatives to banned substances, and reducing environmental pollution costs. This, in turn, supports Kuwait's economy and enhances sustainable development.
Kuwait ratified the Stockholm Convention in March 2006, and in May 2009, the fourth Conference of the Parties in Geneva approved KISR as the official headquarters of the Stockholm Convention Regional Center for Training and Technology Transfer for West Asia. Since beginning its activities in 2011, the center has become a cornerstone for supporting environmental policies and coordinating joint regional efforts.