Kuwait City: UK Chief Executive for the Center for Environment, Fisheries and Agriculture Science (CEFAS) Neil Hornby affirmed Wednesday the importance of knowledge sharing in tackling global environmental challenges, including climate change.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Hornby expressed his appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with Kuwait, emphasizing the critical data and multi-project initiatives aimed at safeguarding the marine environment in Kuwait, and by extension, the region and the world. His remarks followed an official visit to Kuwait, organized with the assistance of the UK's Embassy, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of CEFAS's work with multiple environmental entities in the country.
During his visit, Hornby met with officials from the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME), Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), and Environmental Public Authority (EPA). He noted the significant projects underway to study the impacts of climate change, human activity, and pollution on the marine environment. The collaboration aims to connect various environmental agencies, institutes, and governments to address these challenges effectively.
Hornby explained that CEFAS is working with these entities to enhance the understanding of the marine ecosystem and improve data collection and monitoring methods. Such efforts, he stated, are crucial for preserving marine life and ensuring its nourishment. He highlighted Kuwait's unique position, being located in the hottest region of the world by the Arabian Gulf, which places it at the forefront of challenges posed by climate change. CEFAS is committed to assisting Kuwait in managing and protecting marine species, including coral reefs and fish.
Hornby also underscored the importance of the data collected in Kuwait, such as coral resistance to temperature changes, which is shared globally through CEFAS and other environmental institutes. This collaborative research has resulted in the publication of more than 25 research papers by Kuwaiti and UK scientists. Additionally, Hornby emphasized the need for environmental awareness among the youth and praised the enthusiastic response from students at Kuwait International English School, who have formed a beach cleaning club supported by CEFAS.
When addressing the challenges faced in Kuwait, Hornby identified rising temperatures, exceeding 50°C during summer, as a significant obstacle for scientists. Nevertheless, he commended the dedication of scientists and their counterparts in Kuwait, underscoring the importance of their work. CEFAS, as the UK government's marine science center, continues to provide vital data and collaborate globally to protect seas, oceans, and rivers for current and future generations.