Water for Tomorrow: Hebah Abbas on Kuwait’s Path to a Greener Future

In the face of growing global concerns over water scarcity and the environmental impacts of desalination, Hebah Abbas, Chair of the Sustainability Committee at the Kuwait Water Association, is at the forefront of promoting sustainable water management practices in Kuwait. With over 20 years of cross-sectoral experience in engineering, energy, telecommunications, and education, Hebah brings a unique and holistic vision to addressing the region’s urgent water issues.

Hebah Abbas: My experience across sectors has given me a deep understanding of the interconnections between different industries and their environmental impacts. This allows me to approach sustainability not just as a technical challenge but from a holistic perspective that encompasses social, economic, and ecological dimensions.

The energy sector has made me acutely aware of the environmental impact of desalination, highlighting the need for renewable energy solutions to reduce carbon footprints. On the other hand, my background in telecommunications has allowed me to harness intelligent technologies, especially data analytics, for better water management.

This broad perspective has driven me to seek innovative solutions, like leveraging IoT and smart meters to improve water management and operational efficiency. In addition, my work in education has underscored the importance of public awareness in fostering behavioural change toward water conservation. Ultimately, my vision is to create resilient systems that support both environmental health and economic viability in Kuwait.

My experience across sectors has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the interconnections between various industries and their environmental impacts. This enables me to approach sustainability not merely as a technical challenge, but from a holistic perspective that encompasses social, economic, and ecological dimensions.

Insights gained from the energy sector have heightened my awareness of the environmental challenges associated with desalination, underscoring the urgent need for renewable energy solutions to reduce carbon footprints. Conversely, my background in telecommunications has empowered me to harness advanced technologies, particularly data analytics, to enhance water management practices.

This broad perspective drives me to seek innovative solutions, such as leveraging IoT and smart meters, to improve operational efficiency and resource monitoring. Furthermore, my work in education has highlighted the critical role of public awareness in fostering behavioural change toward water conservation.

Ultimately, my vision is to create resilient systems in Kuwait that align environmental health with economic viability, integrating sustainability principles into national infrastructure and policy frameworks to ensure long-term water security while championing renewable energy solutions.

Hebah Abbas: One of the main challenges is the high cost of desalination, both financially and environmentally. We must constantly balance the “triple bottom line” — people, profit, and the planet. As the Chair of the Sustainability Committee, I’ve faced significant hurdles in advancing water sustainability in a region facing severe water scarcity.

A key challenge is shifting cultural habits around water usage. We’ve had to combine policy interventions, public awareness campaigns, and economic incentives to foster real change. Another issue is the misalignment between public policy and technological advancements. We need proactive frameworks that incentivize water-efficient solutions and support sustainable infrastructure development. Another challenge of fostering collaboration among government, industry, and civil society — something we continue to work on at Kuwait Water Association.

As chair of the National Sustainability Committee in Kuwait Water Association, I have encountered significant challenges in advancing water sustainability in a region marked by acute water scarcity and the high costs of desalination, both financially and environmentally. Balancing the “triple bottom line”—people, profit, and the planet—requires innovative solutions and cross-sector collaboration. A key hurdle has been shifting entrenched cultural habits around water usage, necessitating a multifaceted approach that includes policy interventions, public awareness campaigns, and economic incentives.

Moreover, the disconnect between public policy and technological advancements underscores the need for proactive frameworks that promote water-efficient solutions and sustainable infrastructure development. Raising awareness of the long-term benefits of sustainable water management is essential, especially when immediate economic interests often take precedence. Fostering collaboration among government, industry, and civil society is vital for integrating diverse perspectives, and this is an ongoing focus of our efforts at the Kuwait Water Association. Ultimately, by fostering collective responsibility for our water resources, we can secure a sustainable future for Kuwait and protect this vital asset for generations to come.

Hebah Abbas: At the Kuwait Water Association, we are leading efforts to promote sustainable water management in a country that relies heavily on desalination. One of our key strategies is the advancement of water recycling initiatives. We reclaim wastewater for non-potable applications such as irrigation and industrial use. This not only helps address water scarcity but also reduces environmental impact.

We’ve been running water efficiency programs for over a decade. Our latest project leverages IoT technologies and smart meters to monitor water quality and quantity in real-time, optimizing resource allocation. Public engagement is also crucial. We run interactive education campaigns, such as the “Rashood” program in schools—it teaches children about detecting leaks and conserving water in a fun, interactive way. For professionals, we’ve hosted certified training programs, educating engineers on leak detection in buildings. These initiatives are tailored to different age groups and sectors, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a culture of conservation in Kuwait.

At the Kuwait Water Association, we are leading efforts to promote sustainable water management in a country that heavily relies on desalination. Central to our strategy is the advancement of water recycling initiatives, which reclaim wastewater for non-potable applications such as irrigation and industrial use. This approach not only addresses water scarcity but also reduces environmental impact.

For over a decade, we have implemented water efficiency programs, with our latest project leveraging IoT technologies and smart meters for real-time monitoring of water quality and quantity, optimizing resource allocation. Public engagement is essential to our mission; we run interactive education campaigns, such as the “Rashood” program in schools, teaching children about leak detection and water conservation in a fun, interactive way. Additionally, we offer certified training programs for professionals, educating engineers on leak detection in buildings. These initiatives are designed for various age groups and sectors, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a culture of conservation in Kuwait and ensuring a sustainable water future.

Hebah Abbas: Our approach to water security is holistic. We’re working on preserving and conserving water, producing more through desalination, and promoting groundwater banking through partnerships—the “Five P’s” of water security: preservation, production, partnerships, policy, and pricing. We’re addressing water scarcity through advanced management systems, leveraging IoT solutions to detect water leaks and inefficiencies in real-time.

We’re also expanding wastewater treatment for non-potable uses in agriculture and industry, which helps reduce our dependence on energy-intensive desalination. Additionally, we’re integrating renewable energy into desalination processes and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop resilient frameworks for long-term sustainability. Through these efforts, we’re committed to building resilience against climate-related risks and ensuring a sustainable future for Kuwait’s water resources.

Kuwait is taking proactive measures to tackle climate change and ensure future water security through a holistic approach that combines innovative technologies, strategic policies, and collaborative efforts. We are investing in advanced water management systems that utilize real-time data analytics and IoT solutions to optimize water use, reduce waste, and enhance resource management. A significant focus is on expanding wastewater treatment and reclamation for non-potable applications, thereby decreasing our reliance on energy-intensive desalination. Additionally, we are enhancing energy efficiency with next-generation desalination technologies and implementing comprehensive conservation programs that emphasize public education and community engagement.

Guided by the 5 Ps of water security—preservation, production, partnerships, policy, and pricing—we prioritize the prevention of losses and pollution while promoting groundwater banking and preserving wetlands. Our policy initiatives involve collaboration with government agencies, private sectors, and academic institutions to develop resilient frameworks that align with emerging climate data, including integrating renewable energy into desalination processes. We actively participate in regional and international climate adaptation dialogues, sharing insights and best practices. Through these combined efforts, Kuwait is committed to building resilience against climate-related risks and ensuring a sustainable future for our water resources, establishing itself as a leader in water security.

Hebah Abbas: We aim to continue driving innovation and public engagement. We plan to expand our smart water management systems and increase our focus on wastewater recycling for agricultural and industrial uses. We also advocate for more robust policy frameworks and work with international organizations to align Kuwait’s strategies with global sustainability goals. Our Eco-Schools and Green Key programs are expanding, helping to foster a new generation of sustainability leaders.

We’ll continue overcoming challenges and building a sustainable future for water resources in Kuwait and beyond.

At the Kuwait Water Association, we are committed to advancing sustainable water management in response to population growth and climate change. Our strategy utilizes innovative technologies and circular economy principles to optimize water use and minimize waste, while fostering collaboration among government, private sector, and academia to develop comprehensive policies that promote water recycling and conservation. We focus on expanding smart water management systems and enhancing wastewater recycling for agricultural and industrial applications.

Additionally, we advocate for robust policy frameworks and work with international organizations to align our strategies with global sustainability goals. Our growing Eco-Schools and Green Key programs nurture future sustainability leaders. By driving public-private partnerships and integrating water sustainability into national development plans, we aim to create a resilient framework that supports Kuwait’s long-term socio-economic and environmental objectives, ensuring a sustainable future for water resources in Kuwait and beyond.

Hebah Abbas: The Eco-Committee plays a vital role. They have a vision for how they want their school to operate sustainably, and they initiate various projects that involve everyone. The principals and school management have told us they’ve noticed reduced bullying in these schools and students forming stronger friendships. Students become so invested in these causes that they spend less time on their mobile devices, which is especially impressive with Generation Z. They’re getting involved in farming, recycling, and other environmental projects, which is a change from what we usually expect from this tech-driven generation.

At the end of the day, our approach combines innovative practices, public engagement, and collaborative policymaking. We’re committed, inshallah, to overcoming these challenges.

The Eco-Committee plays a vital role in driving change within the Eco-Schools program by empowering students to lead sustainability initiatives. With a clear vision for a sustainable school environment, this student-led group engages peers and the wider community in environmental awareness and action. They identify key issues, propose solutions, and implement projects that promote eco-friendly practices such as recycling, energy conservation, and biodiversity enhancement.

Their efforts foster a sense of ownership and encourage students to develop critical thinking and leadership skills, creating a culture of sustainability within the school. Initiatives like awareness campaigns, workshops, and community events not only educate but also inspire others to adopt sustainable behaviour’s. Notably, principals and school management have reported positive social impacts, including reduced bullying and stronger friendships among students. This increased investment in sustainability causes students to spend less time on their mobile devices—an impressive shift for Generation Z—while actively participating in farming, recycling, and other environmental projects. Ultimately, our approach combines innovative practices, public engagement, and collaborative policymaking, reflecting our commitment, inshallah, to overcoming challenges and ensuring a sustainable future.

Hebah Abbas: Collaboration is vital. Each group—scientists, policymakers, and the public sector—has a role to play. Scientists often work on patents and research, and we take their ideas and evaluate them from financial, environmental, and policy perspectives. We have strategic partners like the Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Arab Planning Institute, and together, we push forward the initiatives that have the most potential.

We also host workshops and open platforms where stakeholders, from international experts to local communities, can share their insights. For example, we’re organizing.

Collaboration is vital for achieving sustainable water management in Kuwait, with each group—scientists, policymakers, and the public—playing a crucial role. Our multifaceted approach emphasizes communication and knowledge sharing, creating platforms for dialogue that connect experts from hydrology, environmental science, and policy development. We evaluate scientific research through financial, environmental, and policy lenses, ensuring that innovative ideas are effectively translated into actionable initiatives. Strategic partnerships with organizations like the Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Arab Planning Institute allow us to advance the most promising projects.

Additionally, we host workshops and open platforms that invite stakeholders, from international experts to local communities, to share insights and contribute to discussions. Transparency in data dissemination regarding water quality and usage empowers the public to engage meaningfully in water management, supported by awareness campaigns that promote conservation and sustainable practices. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive ecosystem reflects the belief that sustainable water management is a shared responsibility. This approach paves the way for effective solutions to Kuwait’s water challenges, ensuring that policies are both scientifically grounded and socially inclusive.

Hebah Abbas: Achieving UN SDG 6 presents several global challenges, such as water scarcity, inadequate infrastructure, and pollution. Many regions face chronic water shortages due to climate change and resource overuse. Infrastructure is another issue—outdated water and sanitation systems need upgrading, and pollution from industrial and agricultural sources is also challenging.

At Kuwait Water Association, we focus on local solutions with a global mindset. We believe water security is a collective responsibility, not just a national one. We can make significant progress by fostering partnerships, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and educating the public. However, to achieve this goal on a global scale, we need increased collaboration across borders, innovation in water technologies, and robust policy reforms.

Achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 faces significant global challenges, including water scarcity, inadequate infrastructure, pollution, and weak governance. Chronic water shortages, driven by climate change, population growth, and over-extraction, hinder access to safe water and sanitation. Outdated water and sanitation systems further limit service delivery, especially in underserved areas, while pollution from industrial and agricultural sources degrades water quality. These issues are compounded by fragmented governance and insufficient investment in water management, resulting in inefficient resource allocation and inequitable access.

At the Kuwait Water Association, we focus on local solutions with a global perspective, believing that water security is a collective responsibility. Our commitment to sustainability and innovation positions Kuwait to tackle these challenges effectively. By investing in advanced desalination, wastewater treatment, and recycling processes, we enhance water availability and efficiency. We also aim to foster regional collaborations and advocate for robust governance frameworks prioritizing sustainable practices. With our expertise in desalination technologies, Kuwait can assist water-scarce countries, promoting cross-border cooperation and effective resource management. By aligning our national water strategy with international best practices and pushing for integrated policy reforms, Kuwait can play a meaningful role in the global water agenda, serving as a model for sustainable water management and ensuring access for future generations.

Hebah Abbas: Population growth is one of the key drivers of increased demand for water. While it’s optimistic that populations are growing, we must take a proactive, holistic approach to managing water resources effectively. One key strategy is Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM). Countries should adopt IWRM principles that consider the entire hydrological cycle and promote collaboration among sectors, stakeholders, and regions.

Another crucial area is investment in water infrastructure. Unfortunately, outdated infrastructure remains a major bottleneck in many regions. Upgrading these systems is vital, and public-private partnerships (PPP) can significantly accelerate these investments. We’re seeing more infrastructure projects successfully developed through PPPs, which can also help improve distribution networks and reduce water losses. Research and development in water-efficient technologies, such as intelligent water management systems, recycling, and precision agriculture, should be prioritized. This is not just a matter of water security but also food security.

Policy and regulatory frameworks must be strengthened to incentivize sustainable water use. Programs like the FAA (Future Aviation Academy) FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) are examples of effective long-term educational initiatives.

Climate resilience strategies must also be integrated into water management. With climate change exacerbating water scarcity, developing resilient frameworks is important. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, global cooperation is essential. International collaboration on transboundary water resources will be critical to addressing these global challenges. Water issues don’t stop at borders, so countries must work together to ensure a sustainable future.

Population growth is a key driver of increased water demand, necessitating a proactive and holistic approach to effective water resource management. Central to this effort is Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM), which promotes collaboration among sectors, stakeholders, and regions while considering the entire hydrological cycle. By adopting IWRM principles, countries can enhance the efficiency and resilience of water use, addressing current challenges and preparing for future demands. Significant investment in water infrastructure is critical, as outdated systems remain a major bottleneck in many areas. Upgrading these systems, particularly through public-private partnerships (PPPs), can accelerate investment and improve distribution networks, minimizing water losses.

In addition to infrastructure, prioritizing research and development in water-efficient technologies—such as smart management systems, recycling, and precision agriculture—is essential for ensuring both water and food security. Strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks will incentivize sustainable water use and protect water quality, while educational initiatives, like those from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), foster long-term awareness and stewardship. Climate resilience strategies must also be integrated into water management plans, especially as climate change exacerbates scarcity. Finally, global cooperation on transboundary water resources is vital to address these challenges, ensuring equitable access and collaborative solutions. By implementing these proactive measures, the international community can mitigate risks associated with increasing water demand and secure sustainable resources for future generations.