THE PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND COASTAL AREAS OF THE KUWAIT CONFERENCE REGION: THE PROGRAM OF THE UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM1

ABSTRACT On the initiative of the States of the Region, in response to their large-scale development activities and the threat posed to the marine environment, the Kuwait Regional Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Areas was convened by the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Kuwait from 15–23 April 1978. The Conference was attended by Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The major achievement of the Conference was the adoption of a Final Act which includes an Action Plan containing environmental assessment and management programs as well as the Kuwait Regional Convention for Co-operation in the Protection of the Marine Environment from Pollution and a Protocol concerning Regional Co-operation in Combating Pollution by Oil and other Harmful Substances in Cases of Emergency. The potential for severe environmental degradation from massive oil spills was recognized as the priority concern. Initial project activities are scheduled to begin in early 1979 and continue for two years. UNEP will act as the catalytic agent in what is a co-ordinated effort of the United Nations system. In addition to an assessment of the origin and magnitude of pollution in the Region, the unprecedented growth of coastal development, especially industry, will be assessed in order to evaluate environmental consequences and appropriate pollution control measures.