Water-Energy-Nature Nexus Policies in Kuwait: Experimental Evidence on Public Support & Eco-Islamic Values

The talk will focus on the result of a study that examined public support for water-energy-nature (WEN) nexus policies in Kuwait, considering the interconnectedness of different natural resource sectors in addressing climate change and sustainability. While previous research has focused on technical aspects, little is known about public perceptions and willingness to adopt nexus policies.

The study specifically explores the impact of moral incentives, specifically eco-Islamic values, on public support through an informational intervention. Using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) embedded in a discrete choice experiment survey, the researchers engaged a nationally representative sample of Kuwaiti residents (n=431). Participants were assigned randomly to either an informational control group or a moral incentives treatment group that emphasised eco-Islamic values. In the subsequent discrete choice experiment, participants expressed their preferences regarding three WEN nexus policy attributes: reduced emissions through renewable energy transition, increased recycled water from wastewater reduction, and tree planting for nature conservation. Results indicate that exposure to eco-Islamic values increased support for WEN nexus policies; however, while supportive, respondents do not seem willing to pay for them. These results highlight the importance of leveraging socio-cultural factors, such as religion, to promote public support for climate change action. By appealing to eco-Islamic values, policymakers can facilitate the greening of systems and ensure that religious beliefs contribute positively to efforts addressing climate change.

About Dr. Davide Contu

Dr. Davide Contu, Associate Professor at Canadian University Dubai (CUD), holds a PhD in Environmental Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science (UK). He also has a second PhD in Economics from the University of Cagliari (Italy). Furthermore, he is certified in Machine Learning in Business from Rotman School of Management (Canada). His extensive academic background includes a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education from LSE (UK), an MSc in Economics from the University of York (UK), and an MSc in Public Economics from the University of Cagliari (Italy). Before joining CUD, Dr. Davide worked as a senior consultant and manager in the UAE, specializing in market research, data analysis, and digital transformation, notably with Emaar and YouGov. He also currently engages in pro-bono projects with the OECD, focusing on economic valuations related to SDG goals.