Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are intensifying their efforts to counter environmental degradation in marine ecosystems through international collaboration, the adoption of national strategies, and alignment with long-term development visions. According to Al Khaleej Online, these countries are increasingly focusing on sustainability frameworks that aim to mitigate pollution, protect biodiversity, and secure marine resources for future generations.
Strengthening Regional Environmental Protection
GCC member states have taken steps to implement strict environmental policies and health standards aimed at preserving marine environments. These measures include controlling pollution, regulating fishing practices, and launching biodiversity protection programs. The overarching goal is to support the “blue economy,” ensure ocean sustainability, and align marine conservation efforts with national development agendas.
The challenges are substantial. The Gulf region faces climate change, water scarcity, desertification, and pollution resulting from industrial and oil-related activities. These issues necessitate joint action, strategic planning, and participation in international efforts to combat environmental degradation.
During the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council held in March in Geneva, Kuwait’s permanent representative, Ambassador Nasser Al-Hain, emphasized the significance of international collaboration in reducing marine pollution and climate change. He also advocated for cohesive strategies tailored to global and regional environmental dynamics.
In a similar vein, the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA highlighted the Gulf states’ commitment to marine protection, underscoring its critical role in global environmental balance and food security. Al-Hain reiterated the need for healthy marine environments and reinforced that sustainability is essential to achieving long-term human rights goals.
A September 2024 meeting in Doha of Gulf environment ministers reaffirmed this stance. Mohammed Al-Mubarak, chair of Qatar’s Environment and Natural Reserves Ministry, called for enhanced focus on environmental sustainability within national visions, particularly in terms of marine ecosystems. The meeting also stressed the importance of international cooperation in tackling climate change, acknowledging the shared global responsibility to address pressing ecological threats.
Shared Responsibility and Strategic Vision
Environmental researcher Harith Seif Al-Kharousi underlined the collective duty to protect marine ecosystems in the Gulf, emphasizing that environmental responsibility requires both international and local synergy. As Al Khaleej Online reports, Al-Kharousi considers oceans to be the “lifeblood of the Earth,” essential for life support and climate regulation due to their role in producing oxygen and absorbing greenhouse gases.
The Arabian Gulf, as part of the Indian Ocean system, is noted for its rich biodiversity. However, Al-Kharousi warned that rising economic activity in the region, especially oil and gas extraction, increases ecological pressure. These developments, he argued, could threaten environmental balance and marine life.
Al-Kharousi stressed that individual national efforts would be insufficient. He called for the development of a unified international strategy to protect marine ecosystems. Such strategies should include institutional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and the use of scientific methods to mitigate the environmental consequences of industrial activities.
He further advocated for the promotion of positive environmental behaviors, reduction of harmful marine practices, and stricter enforcement mechanisms. Punitive measures and monitoring systems, he argued, are essential for ensuring accountability and adherence to environmental regulations.
Leading Gulf Initiatives
Several Gulf countries have already launched prominent green initiatives, particularly in the fields of energy transition and transport modernization, aimed at reducing their environmental footprint and promoting marine sustainability.
Oman is spearheading the “Green Hydrogen” initiative with a target to produce 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The UAE has developed “Masdar City,” the first carbon-free urban center in the region, and aims to generate 50% of its energy from clean sources by 2050 through its national energy strategy.
Saudi Arabia has introduced the “Saudi Green” and “Middle East Green” initiatives, which include a $150 billion investment to plant 50 million trees and expand renewable energy production as part of its Vision 2030 framework.
Qatar is undertaking 22 renewable energy projects by 2030, aiming to cut emissions by 25% and introduce 4,200 electric buses into public transport systems.
Kuwait aims to produce 15% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting soil resources.
Bahrain is expanding its recycling efforts, aiming to convert up to 30% of waste into energy and reduce landfill dependency.
These initiatives reflect the region’s growing recognition of the need to diversify energy sources, reduce carbon emissions, and protect natural ecosystems. They also signify a strategic pivot towards sustainable development models that balance economic growth with environmental preservation.
From Awareness to Implementation
The Gulf states are clearly moving beyond rhetoric, translating sustainability goals into concrete action plans. By investing in green infrastructure, participating in international environmental forums, and launching domestic initiatives, the region is aligning itself with global efforts to combat climate change and protect marine biodiversity.
The shared recognition of the Gulf’s ecological importance, particularly its role in the global marine system, is fostering stronger cooperation among GCC states. However, experts stress that long-term success depends on consistent implementation, active regional coordination, and accountability mechanisms.
As environmental challenges grow in complexity, the Gulf’s proactive stance may serve as a model for other regions facing similar pressures. Protecting marine environments is not only an ecological imperative but also a prerequisite for ensuring food security, economic resilience, and regional stability in the decades to come.
