AN OVERVIEW OF THE OIL LAKES IN KUWAIT - THE PROBLEM AND REMEDIAL METHODS

The identification, development, and testing of viable bioremediation processes with incentives of conducive economic and environmental aspects are urgently needed to overcome the major challenges faced by the oil lakes in Kuwait. In this paper, the key factors involved in the environmental fate of the oil lakes in the soil and groundwater aquifers are illustrated. In addition, the potential remedial methods to enhance the biodegradation activity as a possible means of cleaning the contaminated soil and/or degrading the existing weathered crude oil in the lakes are identified and discussed.