KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti diving team, affiliated with the Environmental Voluntary Foundation, announced on Thursday its win of the national certificate for the 2024 Energy Globe Award, honoring the team’s efforts in protecting the marine life in Kuwaiti islands. Dr Dhari Al-Huwail, the team’s External Relations Officer, told KUNA that the Austria-based foundation praised the team’s innovative and sustainable work in preserving marine ecosystems and exploring creative solutions to protect the environment.

He added that the recognition enhances Kuwait’s image as a supporter of environmental initiatives and encourages global collaboration in marine protection. Dr Al-Huwail added that this recognition enables the team to connect with global partners in marine conservation while showcasing Kuwait’s commitment to serious environmental efforts and promoting volunteerism. He further explained that the team’s project was selected as the best initiative from Kuwait and was featured alongside over 2,000 global projects submitted by participants from more than 141 countries.

Over the past 30 years, the team has removed over 100 tons of waste, including abandoned fishing nets and debris, from coral reefs around islands such as Qaruh, Umm Al-Maradim, and Kubbar, and also installed 130 marine moorings to prevent anchor damage and collaborated with the University of Queensland on coral health monitoring.

The team’s recent project, Jaber Al-Kuwait Marine Reserves, has created 24 artificial marine habitats to restore damaged coral reefs and support marine life, and they actively raise environmental awareness through educational programs, exhibitions, and media campaigns. Dr Al-Huwail highlighted that the team’s efforts include educational programs for students, active participation in exhibitions and conferences, and the dissemination of environmental awareness materials through social media, television programs, and publications.

The Energy Globe Foundation is a non-profit organization and a global leader in sustainability, and it aims to raise global awareness about the importance of using resources sustainably, creating a better future for upcoming generations, and improving living conditions in developing countries. The Energy Globe Award, established in 1999, is one of the world’s most prestigious environmental honors, recognizing innovative sustainability efforts globally. — KUNA