UNGA79, New York, September 23, 2024
On September 23, 2024, I had the privilege of participating in a high-level discussion titled “Food and Water: Securing Vital Resources,” organized on the occasion of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) and New York Climate Week. The session brought together global leaders to address the critical issue of water security and its impact on agriculture.
In this article, I want to share my thoughts and reflections on the growing challenges we face in water management, particularly in the agricultural sector, and the opportunities that lie ahead for innovation and collaboration.
The Importance of Water in Agriculture
Agriculture, as we know, remains the largest consumer of water worldwide. Yet, when compared to the industrial sector—which often has well-integrated water systems—agriculture lags significantly behind in adopting more efficient and sustainable water management practices. In many parts of the world, traditional irrigation methods persist, placing undue strain on already scarce water resources.
One of the key challenges we face is the high production cost of agricultural goods, which is often disproportionate to their market prices. This economic imbalance, coupled with outdated infrastructure and water-intensive irrigation techniques, further jeopardizes the long-term sustainability of agriculture.
Desalination and Water Reuse: Solutions for a Water-Secure Future
At Almar Water Solutions, we have long advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies such as desalination and water reuse, which are becoming indispensable in ensuring water security for agriculture. Desalination, particularly in water-scarce coastal regions, has the potential to revolutionize agricultural productivity. Countries like Israel and Spain are leading this transformation, turning once unproductive land into fertile, arable areas through large-scale desalination projects.
Equally important is the reuse of reclaimed water. I have seen firsthand how projects in Singapore and the United States are using recycled water for irrigation, significantly reducing the pressure on freshwater resources. These technologies are no longer optional—they are essential tools for a future where water scarcity will increasingly define agricultural success. Recent regulatory changes in Europe are also helping pave the way for broader adoption, making these technologies more accessible and economically viable.
Water Security: A Global Challenge
Water security extends far beyond agriculture—it is a cornerstone of sustainable development and a pressing global challenge. Water scarcity directly impacts food security, economic stability, and even global geopolitics. In regions where water is scarce, we often see higher levels of poverty, hunger, health crises, and migration.
The expansion of agriculture into water-stressed areas, coupled with the rapid growth of urban populations, is exacerbating the demand for water. This makes the sustainable management of water resources more crucial than ever. Effective public policies and international cooperation will be vital in addressing these challenges and ensuring that water resources are distributed and managed equitably.
Water as a Tool for Cooperation
While water scarcity can be a source of conflict, it can also be a powerful tool for cooperation. History provides numerous examples of how international agreements on water management have helped foster peace between regions and nations. I strongly believe that cross-border collaboration and international agreements are essential for the responsible management of our shared water resources.
A Call for Collective Action
As I reflect on the discussions held at UNGA79, it is clear to me that no single entity can solve these challenges alone. Governments, the private sector, and international organizations must come together to advance innovation and sustainability in water management.
At Almar Water Solutions, we are fully committed to playing our part. We believe in the transformative power of innovation, and we are working every day to develop sustainable water solutions that ensure water remains a source of life and cooperation for future generations.
Together, I am confident we can overcome the water challenges we face and build a more secure and sustainable future.
