KUWAIT: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) inaugurated an environmental awareness campaign on Tuesday, titled “My Day without Plastic.” The event aimed to reduce plastic use and promote environmental sustainability. During his opening remarks, Dr Faisal Salman Al-Hamdan, Director General of KISR, stated that the launch of the “My Day without Plastic” campaign marks a new milestone in the distinguished journey of KISR, which has spanned over half a century of excellence, innovation, and constructive collaboration with various sectors of the state.
He emphasized that the Institute continues to play a vital role in supporting decision-makers and contributing effectively to Kuwait’s scientific and sustainable development, noting that this campaign is the result of more than a year of continuous efforts, designed to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic materials and their accumulation as solid waste, along with a serious and pressing environmental and public health issue.
Al-Hamdan highlighted the pioneering role of KISR’s Life Sciences Research Center, which has conducted a wide range of specialized research activities focused on plastic pollution and recycling solid plastic waste. He added: “These studies have shown that plastics are among the most harmful pollutants due to their non-biodegradable nature and the toxic substances they contain, which have been proven to negatively affect soil, water, and living organisms.”
Dr Faisal Salman Al-Hamdan, Director General of KISR tour the exhibition that was held on the sidelines of the event.
KUWAIT: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research launches the second edition of the ‘My Day Without Plastic’ campaign to reduce pollution and raise awareness of its dangers. – KUNA photos
Al-Hamdan further pointed out that the Institute has, over many years of continuous scientific work, conducted comprehensive studies across Kuwait’s terrestrial and marine environments, explaining that these efforts have led to the development of national standards for biodegradable plastic bags, in addition to submitting several technical recommendations to relevant government authorities.
In addition to research and policy initiatives, he indicated that KISR has developed thermal and chemical technologies to produce alternative fuel from solid plastic waste, presenting a promising method for converting waste into economically valuable raw materials. He noted that KISR has also advanced its work in developing eco-friendly plastic materials and improving recycling efficiency. He revealed that KISR is currently finalizing a first-of-its-kind scientific proposal in Kuwait, in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which aims to assess microplastic particles generated by the accumulation of solid plastic waste in the marine environment.
“The campaign seeks to encourage the community to adopt responsible behavior by reducing plastic use in daily life, a step that contributes to mitigating pollution, protecting Kuwait’s land and marine ecosystems, and preserving public health,” Al-Hamdan said. He added that as part of the campaign, KISR will organize awareness lectures and educational videos directed at social media users and decision-makers, with the goal of enhancing environmental awareness and promoting the shift toward biodegradable alternatives and the sustainable use of resources.
Al-Hamdan concluded by affirming that this initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, which underscores the importance of sustainability, environmental and social responsibility, and the advancement of national initiatives dedicated to protecting Kuwait’s environment and ensuring a sustainable future. An environmental exhibition was held on the sidelines of the ceremony, along with lectures titled “Talents Driving Environmental Change” and “The Story of Plastic at the Institute.”
