Environment

By H.E. Eng. Ahmed Mohamed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary, Department of Energy, Abu Dhabi

Water is the cornerstone of life on Earth, yet nearly one-third of the global population faces the stark reality of water scarcity. Climate change is amplifying this crisis, with intensifying droughts and shifting rainfall patterns threatening ecosystems and communities.

Currently, over two billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and UN-Water predicts that by 2030, water scarcity could displace more than 700 million people. This urgent challenge demands global platforms to instigate change, implement forward-thinking policies, develop innovative solutions, and secure investments to sustain growth while safeguarding water security.

Addressing MENA’s Water Scarcity

In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), water scarcity presents a critical threat. Limited freshwater resources, rising demand, and increasing consumption exacerbate the region’s struggle for water access. Tackling this challenge requires immediate action through innovation, investment, and bold policy reforms.

Abu Dhabi is leading efforts to confront this challenge, charting a path to a secure and sustainable future. Through an integrated strategy for water resource management, the Department of Energy (DoE) is aligning its policies with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 6: Water and Sanitation for All.

The Role of Innovation and Policy

At the forefront of Abu Dhabi’s initiatives are progressive regulations and technological advancements. The Al Taweelah Power and Desalination Complex stands as a prime example of using innovation to deliver sustainable water solutions. AI-driven water systems, energy-efficient desalination, and water reuse technologies highlight the UAE’s convergence of energy and water sectors to meet net-zero targets.

To advance these goals, the DoE is accelerating the development of smart infrastructure and energy-conscious desalination technologies. These efforts are vital for achieving long-term sustainability.

Empowering the Next Generation

Empowering youth is central to Abu Dhabi’s strategy. The DoE actively raises awareness about water conservation through programs like the Energix app and community lectures. At the upcoming IDRA World Congress 2024, a Youth Program will foster innovation and leadership among young minds, equipping them to tackle future challenges in water and energy sustainability.

Such initiatives aim to cultivate a culture of sustainability, ensuring that future generations actively contribute to global discussions on resource conservation.

Financing Sustainable Water Solutions

Achieving water security demands substantial financial investments. Abu Dhabi’s success with the public-private partnership (PPP) model has enabled large-scale desalination projects. Collaboration with global financial leaders continues to secure investments for scalable, innovative water solutions.

Building a Collaborative Future

Water security requires a comprehensive, integrated approach that unites policymakers, industries, and environmental stewards. By addressing the compounded effects of population growth, industrial demand, and climate change, we can work toward equitable access to sustainable water resources.

Through collective global action and innovative solutions, we can build a future where every community has access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water.

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