Environmental activist Issa Al-Essa has voiced strong criticism over Kuwait’s lack of a comprehensive greening strategy, while also highlighting the mishandling of certain tree planting initiatives that have been left neglected post-planting.
Al-Essa told Al-Qabas daily that “tree planting can significantly alleviate scorching temperatures by approximately 4 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, apart from creating a more inviting environment, trees play a pivotal role in diminishing pollution and harmful emissions.”
He emphasized that “Kuwait has experienced an alarming escalation in temperatures in recent years. Over the past decade, there have been 64 days with temperatures surpassing 50 degrees Celsius, a stark contrast to the 34 such days recorded in the preceding fifty years, since temperature tracking began in 1962 as per data from the Kuwait Meteorological Department. Regrettably, this upward trend in temperatures is anticipated to persist due to the effects of global warming.”
He went on to say, “Nature has ingeniously endowed regions with the potential to mitigate summer temperatures through a simple yet effective mechanism: increasing the number and height of trees.
Copious studies corroborate that augmented tree planting can yield temperature reductions exceeding 4 degrees Celsius during the summer months.” Al-Essa emphasized trees’ capacity to tap into groundwater and temper the surrounding air. He advocated for the establishment of green buffers between residential zones, underscoring the vital role of cooperatives, charitable organizations, and private enterprises in advancing afforestation.
Al-Essa scrutinized the choice of tree species that are unsuited to the arid climate, pointing out that palm trees are not optimally suited for Kuwait’s specific weather conditions and environmental nuances.
Read Today's News TODAY... on our Telegram Channel click here to join and receive all the latest updates t.me/thetimeskuwait
