Water scarcity is an ever-looming crisis in the Middle East, posing a severe threat to the region’s stability and development. As populations grow, climates change, and traditional water sources dwindle, the Middle East finds itself at a critical juncture.
In this article, Dr. Fadi Ghaith delves into the challenges posed by water scarcity, examines the latest statistics that underscore its severity, and explores the need for innovative solutions and regional cooperation to secure a sustainable water future.
The Current State of Water Scarcity in the Middle East
The Middle East is among the most water-scarce regions globally, facing an acute imbalance between water supply and demand. UNICEF reports that out of the 17 countries facing the most severe water stress globally, 11 are located in the Middle East and North Africa region.This scarcity is aggravated by population growth, which outpaces water infrastructure development and management strategies.
According to a World Bank study, the economic impact of climate-induced water scarcity in the region could result in losses equivalent to 14 percent of the total GDP over the next three decades.Climate change further intensifies the problem, leading to irregular rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and prolonged droughts.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projections indicate a worrisome trend towards a hotter and drier Middle East, amplifying the stress on already strained water resources.
By the year 2040, around 20% of nations are expected to confront persistent water scarcity, with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) experiencing the most significant impact.
Challenges Magnifying Water Scarcity
Population Growth- The Middle East is experiencing rapid population growth, placing enormous pressure on limited water resources.
As per UNICEF, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) population, encompassing the Arab countries and Iran, is expected to rise from 484 million in 2018 to 581 million by 2030 and further to 724 million by 2050.
As urbanisation accelerates and more people migrate to cities, the demand for water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural purposes surges, exacerbating the existing scarcity.
Inefficient Water Management- Inefficiencies in water management, including outdated infrastructure, lack of proper maintenance, and the prevalence of water-intensive crops, contribute significantly to water wastage.
UNICEF states that although the region comprises only 6% of the global population, it receives a mere 2% of the world’s renewable freshwater, and a significant portion of water is wasted due to leaky pipes and inefficient irrigation methods.
Political and economic complexities- Transboundary water resources shared by multiple countries often become the source of political tensions, further challenging collective action and regional cooperation.
Innovative Solutions and Technologies
Desalination Technology- Desalination has emerged as a game-changer in the region’s quest for freshwater. UNICEF reports that the Gulf countries contribute to 60% of the world’s water desalination capacity, generating approximately 40% of the total desalinated water globally through over 400 regional desalination plants.
By 2030, it is anticipated that the desalination capacity in Gulf countries will nearly double, driven by public sector initiatives to enhance resilience and diversify economies.Recent advancements, particularly in reverse osmosis technology, have made desalination more energy-efficient and economically viable.
Various types of desalination systems fall under the umbrella of renewable energy sources. However, solar desalination is the most impactful and solidifying solution for the UAE. Solar desalination has high potential in the UAE due to its abundance of daily solar irradiation.
The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University Dubai is committed to conducting research and generating green desalination solutions.
One example of the innovative solution is to integrate a concentrated photovoltaic thermal (CPV/T) system with a hybrid reverse osmosis and multi-effect desalination plants.
The electrical output could be supplied to a reverse osmosis plant to desalinate seawater whilst the thermal energy generated from the CPV/T system is supplied to multi-effect distillation plant for further desalination of seawater to freshwater.
Smart Water Management Systems- The implementation of smart water management systems represents a crucial step in optimising water use. These systems leverage data analytics and sensor technologies to monitor and control water distribution, minimising waste and improving overall efficiency. In the field of water and wastewater treatment, the Middle East has achieved notable progress.
Emphasising environmental sustainability and water preservation, the region has adopted advanced technologies for purifying and recycling wastewater, thereby alleviating pressure on freshwater resources.
Policy Reforms- Dealing with water scarcity in the MENA region goes beyond political determination; it entails transforming attitudes and anticipations within government bodies and communities.
Institutional changes should encompass outreach initiatives, transparent decision-making processes, and civic education. Understanding the viewpoints of citizens can guide the development of equitable water tariff systems, and information on incentives can improve the performance of utilities. Enhancing local leaders’ capacity assists in addressing water allocation challenges.
Regional Cooperation
Cross-Border Collaboration- Water scarcity is not confined by national borders, necessitating regional cooperation. Organisations such as the Arab Water Council and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) play pivotal roles in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among Middle Eastern countries.
Collaborative efforts are essential for managing shared water basins, promoting technology transfer, and sharing best practices.
Knowledge Exchange –Establishing platforms for the exchange of knowledge and experiences is crucial for fostering innovation. Countries with successful water management practices can serve as models for others, providing insights into effective policies and technologies.
Regional workshops, conferences, and joint research initiatives can facilitate this exchange of expertise.
In conclusion, water scarcity in the Middle East demands urgent attention and concerted action. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, implementing effective policies, and fostering collaboration, the Middle East can overcome the challenges posed by water scarcity.
The path to a sustainable water future requires a collective commitment to innovation, efficiency, and shared responsibility. The time to act is now, for the sake of the region’s environment, economy, and the well-being of its people.
Dr Fadi Ghaith is Head of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University Dubai