Sunday, 8 February 2026
Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC), in partnership with Ajial Real Estate, concluded its six-month Green Movie Night series with the screening of Lessons of Darkness by Werner Herzog. Shown in February, the film served as a poignant reminder of the environmental devastation caused by the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, particularly the oil well fires, and the long-term remediation efforts that continue today. Through its stark visuals, the film invited audiences to reflect on loss, memory, and the lasting impact of environmental destruction.
Remembering Environmental Impact Beyond the Headlines
While often referenced as a historical event, the environmental consequences of the oil fires remain present through ongoing soil contamination, air pollution, and ecosystem disruption. The screening encouraged viewers to move beyond statistics and engage emotionally with the scale of damage inflicted on Kuwait’s land and environment, reinforcing the idea that sustainability is deeply connected to history, responsibility, and collective memory.
A Meaningful Discussion on Grief, Solastalgia, and Healing
The screening was followed by a discussion with Dr. Reem Alawadhi, who addressed both the human and environmental impacts of the invasion. She spoke about collective grief and introduced the concept of solastalgia, highlighting the emotional distress linked to environmental loss. Dr. Alawadhi emphasized awareness and dialogue as essential tools for healing, positioning sustainability as a human-centered practice rooted in care and understanding.
Six Months of Film, Dialogue, and Awareness
Curated by Kuwait GBC in partnership with Ajial Real Estate, the six-month Green Movie Night series explored a wide range of sustainability themes through film, including environmental justice, climate change, and the human relationship with nature. The series aimed to use storytelling as a powerful tool to spark dialogue, deepen awareness, and make complex sustainability topics more accessible and impactful.
Looking Ahead
As the series comes to a close, Kuwait GBC extends its appreciation to Ajial Real Estate, guest speakers, and attendees who contributed to meaningful conversations throughout the program. While this chapter concludes, the commitment to using creative platforms to drive environmental awareness and sustainable action continues through future initiatives.