Abu Dhabi tackles threat of future water scarcity.

ABU DHABI has developed a master plan that calls for the adoption of stringent eco-friendly measures to increase water production in the emirate and urges implementation of the government's water policies to reduce wastage. The master plan, created by Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) in the face of a threat of severe water shortages in the emirate in the future, was referred to during the Agribusiness Outlook Forum in Dubai. Abu Dhabi has one of the highest per capital water consumptions in the world with an average consumption of 550 litres of water per person per day. "This consumption, combined with the predicted population growth in Abu Dhabi to 3.5 million in 2030, means we could face severe water shortages in the future, and need to rethink about water usage efficiency now," said EAD water resources manager Dr Mohamed Dawoud. "The emirate has witnessed rapid development in the last four decades, resulting in immense pressure on water usage. This master plan is an initiative that seeks to implement measures for limiting depletion of natural resources, and at the same time increase water usage efficiency in different sectors, including the agricultural sector," Dr Dawoud stated.

Dr Dawoud was addressing delegates on the Abu Dhabi government's approach for improving water use in agriculture and the role of the 2030 master plan at the Agribusiness Outlook Forum. The forum was part of the Agra and Vet Middle East exhibitions that focused on agribusiness and veterinary trade respectively and were held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition centre. Dr Dawoud said investment in the latest agricultural technologies and automated irrigation methods, such as greenhouses using hydroponic systems, could save up to 40 per cent of water in agriculture and deliver healthier produce. "The 2030 master plan was developed with the intention of achieving sustainable utilisation of water resources in an eco-friendly way, thereby enhancing sustainable development of Abu Dhabi," said Dr Dawoud. Richard Pavitt, exhibition director of Agra Middle East, and Vet Middle East, said: "The 2030 master plan provides an interesting insight into the current water scenario in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and addresses important issues of water supply and also underlines efficient water usage techniques." Held under the patronage of Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, Agra Middle East was supported by the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water, Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Flower Centre and the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech). Vet Middle East was supported by the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, with scientific support coming from CVR Laboratories.

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