Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering commitment to sustainable water management and global water security in a statement commemorating World Water Day.
A Call for Urgent Action
Highlighting the critical nature of the global water crisis, Dr. Al Dahak stated:
“On this World Water Day, let us reflect on the profound significance of water – the very essence of life and the lifeblood of our planet.”
She noted that 2.2 billion people worldwide—one in four—lack access to safe, clean water, stressing the urgent need to recommit to sustainable water practices and work toward a water-resilient future for all.
Glacier Preservation: A Global Concern
This year’s World Water Day theme, Glacier Preservation, serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness between global ecosystems and local water security. Driven by climate change, glaciers have lost over 6,500 billion tonnes (5%) of their ice since the beginning of the century—an unsustainable rate that poses a serious risk to global water resources.
Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the UAE’s proactive stance, stating:
“We embrace our shared responsibility through sustainable water management. Our Net Zero 2050 Strategy is spearheading the transition to net-zero emissions, while the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 is guiding efforts to reduce overall demand for water by 21% and significantly increase water-use efficiency across all sectors.”
Pioneering Global Water Initiatives
Under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE is addressing global water scarcity through the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, which aims to raise awareness, accelerate innovation, and foster international collaboration to build a water-resilient future.
Innovating for Sustainable Water Solutions
Dr. Al Dahak also highlighted the UAE’s commitment to decarbonised desalination by advancing Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology. Notably:
- Abu Dhabi’s Al Taweelah RO plant, part of the Al Taweelah Power and Desalination Complex, is set to become the world’s largest RO facility upon completion.
- By 2030, 90% of Abu Dhabi’s desalinated water will be produced via RO.
- DEWA targets 100% desalination using clean energy and waste heat by 2030.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is also investing in agri-tech initiatives aimed at reducing agricultural water consumption, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to national water security.
A Ramadan Reflection on Responsible Water Use
Dr. Al Dahak called on the community to embrace responsible water consumption, especially during the holy month of Ramadan:
“Let us renew our dedication to responsible water use and amplify our efforts in global initiatives safeguarding our precious water resources. Every small step counts—and together, we can make a lasting impact on our planet’s water security.”
She concluded by underlining the deep link between climate and water, saying:
“A water crisis is inherently a climate crisis. Through collaboration, the UAE remains committed to protecting vital water resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.”
News Source: Emirates News Agency
