Recognizing water security as one of the biggest challenges faced by the country, 'UAE Water Security Strategy 2036', was launched in September last year, to explore innovative and adaptive solutions seeking to ensure sustainable access in normal and emergency conditions. The comprehensive, long-term strategy covers all components of the water supply chain over a time frame of 20 years.

It focuses on three main areas:

1. Water demand management

2. Water supply management

3. Emergency production and distribution.

 

The strategy also includes establishment of six connecting networks between water and electricity entities across the UAE. Networks will be able to provide 91 litres of water per person per day in an emergency, or 30 litres per person per day in extreme emergencies.

 

'Water Security Strategy 2036' is expected to achieve huge monetary savings in addition to a '100 million metric tonnes' reduction in the emission of carbon dioxide, associated with water desalination process.

 

Overall objectives of The UAE's Water Security Strategy

 

Accordingly, both government and private sector entities have spurred into action. 

Some of the current and ongoing noteworthy projects are listed below:

World's largest Water Reserve

A new reservoir in Abu Dhabi, built after 15 years of continuous work, was launched in January this year. It acts as a vital safety net for the provision of water, and an excellent regional model for foresight and planning. Located in Al Dhafra in Liwa, it is the world's largest reserve of high-quality desalinated water, storing 5.6 billion gallons of water, or enough to provide 1 million people in the capital with 180 litres per person for up to 90 days.

 

Masdar Renewable Energy Desalination Programme

As part of the Masdar Renewable Energy Desalination Programme near Ghantoot, 5 international companies are testing new solutions that are expected to be up to 75 % more energy efficient than the currently used thermal desalination technology. These projects include solar-powered reverse osmosis, a technique where salt water is purified through membranes.

 

Badia Hydroponic Farms

'Badia Farms' in Dubai, is a vertical farming venture that uses hydroponic technology and 90 %less water than open-field farming. The farm also recycles the water it uses and provides fresh local produce thus helping combat the carbon footprint of international food imports.

 

Private initiatives

'Porous Alpha technology' is a soil amendment solution, launched by Tottori Resource Middle East, a joint venture between Emirati entrepreneur, Muntaser Al Mansouri and Japanese firm, Tottori Resource Recycling. It is expected to save 50 %of water consumption in agriculture and urban greening, increasing yields by 20 per cent.

'Air-to-Water System' is a new innovative technology that creates cost-effective and sustainable mineralised drinking water by harnessing humidity from the air. Launched by Eshara Capital and Veragon Water Solutions, the system can produce up to 1,000 litres of potable water per day in hot or tropical environments, at very cheap rates. The water is certified to WHO standards and approved for use in the UAE.

 

Awareness Projects 

Often working in conjunction with non-profit organisations such as EWS-WWF, governmental and water authorities are actively raising awareness through various campaigns to encourage both individuals and businesses to act and reduce their water consumption. Environmental groups such as Emirates Green Building Council and Emirates Environment Group (of which I was also a student member while I was in UAE) are raising awareness through various channels.

Save Water UAE is a noteworthy project. In addition to working with businesses to reduce their water consumption, their website allows residents to buy simple, 'easy-to-install' water-saving devices for homes.

Surge, an international not-for-profit organisation promotes safe water and sanitation solutions, through two flagship programmes listed below:

'Water: The Global Passport', a bilingual project for school children, is delivered in association with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority and the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia), to sensitise children to serious water issues and inculcate good habits.

'H₂O Games' brings the same awareness to the corporate sector, wherein participants are encouraged to engage in innovative and educational games consisting of hands-on activities and challenges.

The above projects by Surge engage both the public and private sector to foster a better understanding of the importance of water conservation and call for action towards water security.

 

Conclusion

With rainfall that rarely exceeds 10cm a year, UAE is one of the ten most arid countries in the world, consuming about 15 %of the world's desalinated water. Governmental initiatives, private projects as well as individual participation from the community will go a long way for UAE to combat an imminent water crisis and achieve water security. 'Water Security Strategy 2036' is headed in the right direction to help UAE secure its future water needs.

 

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