Abu Dhabi Places Special Emphasis On Preservation Of Groundwater Reserves: EAD

ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 21st Mar, 2019) Government of Abu Dhabi places a special emphasis on the preservation of its groundwater reserves, which account for nearly 65 percent of the water consumption in the emirate, according to Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Acting General-Secretary of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, EAD.

In a statement marking the World Water Day, which falls tomorrow, Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Acting General-Secretary of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, EAD, said, "Every year, World Water Day shines the spotlight on the importance of water and the critical need to conserve it. For the unique arid desert environment of the UAE, the significance of this essential natural resource cannot be overstated."

Al Dhaheri noted, "As our nation continues to progress and prosper, our demand for continuous supply of safe and clean water is intensifying – placing an even greater need to preserve and protect our precious water resources."

Just earlier this year, the Environment Agency launched the results of the first Groundwater Wells Inventory project, as well as the first-of-its-kind Groundwater Atlas, which will allow decision-makers to develop integrated plans that promote the sustainable and efficient management of this important resource.

The project recorded over 100 measurement parameters of over 118,000 wells in Abu Dhabi that will help track and analyse the status, levels and uses of groundwater reserves in the emirate.

EAD was also instrumental in the development of the Liwa Strategic Water Reserve – the world’s largest reserve of high-quality desalinated water – by delivering scientific studies, feasibility and risk analyses, mitigation scenarios and strategic planning required for its completion.

The agency is also guided by the nation’s Water Security Strategy 2036, that also advocates for the responsible and efficient usage of our water resources.

"Abu Dhabi has one of the highest rates of per capita water in the world – 560 litres per day – so we all must take serious strides to achieve more sustainable water consumption levels. This can only be done in collaboration with our entire community – let us make meaningful changes today to ensure that we are able to benefit from this vital resource well into the future," Dr. Al Dhaheri concluded.