Manila: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) is actively participating in the International Forum on Nuclear Technologies for Addressing Plastic Pollution in Manila, with the event being led by Director General Dr. Faisal Al-Humaidan. Dr. Al-Humaidan emphasized that Kuwait's involvement underscores its collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in addressing plastic pollution on both regional and international fronts.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Al-Humaidan highlighted Kuwait's contribution to this critical global environmental challenge through KISR's research leadership and the establishment of international standards for detecting and understanding microplastic contamination. He emphasized KISR's role as a principal partner and collaborating center with the IAEA, supported by its scientific expertise and research capabilities that assist member states in addressing plastic pollution issues.
Dr. Al-Humaidan further mentioned that KISR, through innovative research and international collaboration, has developed unified protocols with the IAEA now employed in over 75 countries to evaluate and mitigate microplastic risks in oceans, soil, and air. This work contributes to Kuwait's involvement in the IAEA's NUTEC Plastics initiative, aiming to monitor and curb marine plastic pollution through nuclear-based techniques.
A significant achievement, as noted by Dr. Al-Humaidan, is KISR's development of a certified reference material shared with the IAEA, which is used in inter-laboratory comparisons across 55 countries, enhancing the accuracy of global microplastic measurements. He stressed that KISR's efforts in establishing standards and conducting advanced research safeguard Kuwait's environment and food security while supporting international initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
He also pointed out that KISR's protocols for measuring microplastics in seawater, sand, fish, and air have been adopted across Asia, the Pacific, and beyond, ensuring consistent global data. Dr. Al-Humaidan expressed appreciation for the support of Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Permanent Mission in Vienna, and the Embassy in the Philippines, led by Ambassador Mishari Al-Neybari, which facilitated the delegation's successful participation.