Decision No. 210/2001 pertaining to the Executive By-Law of the Law No. 21/1995 establishing the Environment Public Authority

The law establishes environmental requirements and standards in Kuwait. These standards apply to aspects related to environmental impacts of development projects, work and indoor environment, chemical resources management, hazardous waste, marine and coastal environment, air pollution, among others.

 

Chapter I regulates elements related to the environmental impact of the development projects. Article 2 requires all projects to undergo environmental impact studies prior to any development.

 

Chapter VII sets provisions on air pollution. Article 76 refers to emission standards. Thus, the law sets limits for air pollution emissions, including those pertaining to hydrocarbon substances released from fixed facilities.

 

Furthermore, operators must keep records of their emissions and notify the Environmental Public Authority when emissions exceed allowed limits. However, these apply only to non-methane hydrocarbons.

 

Appendix No. (1) lists the projects which need to conduct an environmental impact study before execution, modification or expansion, including all petroleum activities.

 

Appendix No. (2) sets engineering and environmental requirements for the industrial sector. Petroleum activities and refineries most employ advanced technologies to control atmospheric pollutants. They must also undertake continuous monitoring and periodic maintenance of related equipment.

 

Appendix No. (17-2) sets environmental air quality standards for industrial areas.  These do not, however, cover non-methane hydrocarbons.

 

Appendix No. (20) stipulates allowable emission rates for air pollutants from fixed sources, including oil refineries, and storage tanks for petroleum and organic volatile liquids.

Want to know more about this policy ? Learn more (English)