The rise in industrialization, together with high population growth and rapid urbanization, have resulted in ever-increasing environmental problems. Our marine waters are shallow and virtually landlocked, experiencing extremes of salinity and temperature.
Evaporation is high, precipitation is poor and freshwater supply is decreasing.
The risk of oil pollution in the Sea Area is one of the highest anywhere, mainly due to the concentration of offshore installations, tanker terminals, petrochemical industries and the huge volume of oil transported by ships. In April 1978, the eight Governments of the Region adopted the Kuwait Convention and Action Plan, making us one of the first Regional Seas. The Plan mainly covers programme activities relating to oil pollution, industrial wastes, sewage and marine resources. Another notable feature of our programme is its influence in the participating countries, and the cooperation it has stimulated. Our State of the Marine Environment Report is a great witness of how seriously our Member States are taking the protection of their marine environment.