ShareKUWAIT: Kuwait’s first sustainable wool factory, “Soof”, was inaugurated on Monday at Al-Mawashi, under the patronage and presence of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) said the factory is a result of an initiative by Al Sadu Society, supported by KFAS and hosted by Al-Mawashi. This strategic partnership aims to develop the local wool industry, add value to Kuwait’s natural resources and promote sustainability in national projects.
KFAS explained that the project began with the Al Sadu Society’s proposal to explore the feasibility of producing sustainable yarns from local wool. KFAS funded a research initiative in collaboration with the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the Al Sadu Society, focusing on improving wool quality from Naeemi sheep, known for their high-quality fibers, for use in traditional crafts. The findings demonstrated the potential for economic and industrial development, leading to the recommendation to establish the factory as a model for successful partnerships supported by KFAS.
The Al Sadu Society emphasized the factory’s role in promoting sustainability by responsibly utilizing natural resources and producing wool threads for artisanal crafts. This initiative preserves cultural heritage, enhances traditional weaving skills and improves artisanal production quality.
The factory incorporates eco-friendly technologies aligned with Kuwait’s vision for sustainability. Solar photovoltaic panels installed on the factory’s rooftops generate approximately 25,000 kWh of electricity annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 15 tons per year. Additionally, advanced water treatment systems recycle 70,000 cubic meters of water annually for irrigation.
Al-Mawashi, the Livestock Transport and Trading Company, played a key role by providing factory space and sheep wool, supporting the local economy and traditional crafts. The company emphasized the project’s importance in encouraging youth to acquire new skills, integrating traditional crafts with modern technologies, and promoting innovation. This initiative positions Kuwait as a leader in industrial innovation and heritage preservation while showcasing the value of collaboration between national institutions and the private sector in achieving sustainable development.
