Kuwait’s agricultural efforts to mitigate climate change

"Kuwait's agriculture is constrained by harsh arid environmental conditions which limits the range of crops that can be cultivated. Hence any significant expansion in open field agriculture can be done by giving emphasis on selection and adaptation of crop plants that can with stand the adverse climatic conditions. Since adaptation to climate change is imperative for Kuwait, it should be the central element while developing planning strategies of the country. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), a pioneer in the field of agriculture has undertaken many projects with the objective of contributing to integrated crop production and management of natural resources in a sustainable manner. These projects aimed at developing new varieties of crops adapted to high temperatures and different spans of seasons and also crops resistant to salinity and drought. KISR has introduced more than 50 trees for greenery and landscape beautification under the Agriculture Master Plan. Those trees are being used for greenery purpose and to reduce climate change effect. In addition the Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAFR) has also introduced some ornamental trees to Kuwait such as Conocarpus, Ficus, Prosopis and date palm trees to combat climate change. The continuation of efforts to minimize climate change is crucial for which coordination between institutions and programmes needs to be improved."