Sustainable Water: Beyond Alternative Sources to a Change in Attitude
The escalating issue of water scarcity is no longer a distant concern but a present-day reality, impacting economies and livelihoods globally. A comprehensive study by a global management consultancy firm highlights the urgent need to address this issue, which could potentially cost some regions up to 6% of their GDP by 2025.
Last summer’s severe droughts across Europe, China, North America, and Africa were not isolated incidents but part of an ongoing global trend. These droughts underline the criticality of water in our economy, with sectors ranging from agriculture to high-tech industries severely affected. Agriculture, consuming 72% of all water, feels the brunt of this crisis, but the impact spans across various industries, including food, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
The study emphasizes the need for alternative water sources and large-scale behavioral change. It explores various options like rainwater harvesting, seawater desalination, and reusing treated wastewater (grey water). For instance, rainwater could provide an additional 30 million m³ annually in Flanders by 2031. However, challenges remain, such as the environmental impact of desalination by-products and the potential of grey water.
The report also sheds light on the significant amount of water lost due to leakages in the distribution network. Adopting smart technologies for monitoring and reducing leakages is crucial. The UAE has made strides in this area, with only 10% water lost to leakages, significantly lower than countries like the US, UK, and France.
But addressing the water crisis isn’t just about finding new sources; it’s about changing our consumption habits. The agricultural sector, for instance, must adopt modern water-saving techniques, like switching from flood to drip irrigation, potentially reducing water consumption by up to 60%. Companies across various sectors can contribute by redesigning production processes, rethinking product designs, and reusing treated wastewater.
Hani Tohme stresses the urgency of this situation. ” Water, an indispensable element of life, is currently caught in a risky balance. Where it is plentiful, it is often wasted, and where it is scarce, it is frequently overused. This contradiction underlines the urgent need for sustainable solutions and a comprehensive approach to preserve our most vital resource,” he warns. The study suggests implementing fines on water distributors for excessive leakages as a potential solution, citing Denmark’s success in reducing leakages by 8% through such measures.
Investment in water infrastructure is vital for ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply. As climate change continues to strain our water resources, the need for innovation, coupled with a change in mentality and policy, becomes more critical.
The societal impact of water scarcity is profound, especially in water-stressed regions like the Middle East and North Africa. Droughts in Morocco and Iraq’s river and marshlands are leading to significant economic and social challenges, including mass exoduses.
In conclusion, this study is a call to action for governments, businesses, and individuals to rethink their relationship with water. By embracing new technologies, innovative solutions, and a change in mindset, we can combat the growing challenge of water scarcity and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
by Editor