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Orange Jordan commences 5G agriculture boot camp 

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Orange Jordan has announced the launch of its 5G agriculture boot camp, which aims to highlight the role of novel technologies, including 5G, IoT, and AI, in supporting sustainable agriculture. 

In the boot camp, experts are set to share global best practices for addressing the agricultural sector’s challenges.

The boot camp, running for two months, will convene engineers, subject matter experts, entrepreneurs, and innovators to gather to discuss the ways that technology can impact sustainable agriculture.

It was shared that in the Jordan Valley and Wadi Araba regions, due to their arid nature, desert locusts are a particular challenge. These locusts lead to the destruction of crops, lowering agricultural production and food security in Jordan and the region.

During an intensive training session over three days a week, a group of experts will provide training workshops on several crucial topics such as innovation, digital manufacturing technologies, user experience, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and 5G.

This training program focuses on building the participants’ capabilities to combat the desert locust invasion through technology and will come up with innovative ideas that will be showcased during the closing ceremony.

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EnergyFood & WaterLatest News

DEWA and ACWA Power reach financial close of Hassyan seawater RO desalination project

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and ACWA Power have announced the financial closing of the Hassyan seawater reverse osmosis (RO) desalination project.

This 180 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) project is the largest of its kind using RO technology under the Independent Water Producer (IWP) model, with an investment of AED 3.377 billion.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, commented: “In alignment with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, DEWA is committed to developing an advanced and integrated energy and water infrastructure that aligns with Dubai’s progressive development and caters to the increasing demand for electricity and water services while meeting the requirements of comprehensive sustainable development plans and the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.”

“As part of our commitment to enhancing water security in Dubai through sustainable means, we have successfully reached the financial close for the Hassyan Complex project, aimed at producing 180 MIGD of desalinated water. This initiative supports Dubai’s Integrated Water Resources Management Strategy 2030, which emphasises resource optimisation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions.”

By 2030, DEWA shared that it aims to produce 100 per cent of desalinated water with clean energy and waste heat.

“We are proud to join forces with our esteemed partners in the United Arab Emirates to finalise the financing of this ambitious project, which will play a crucial role in Dubai’s ambitious plan to produce 100% of its desalinated water by 2030 from a clean energy and waste heat mix. This partnership serves as a model for fruitful projects that we operate and manage in cooperation with DEWA, as part of our commitment to contributing to Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050. We have set a world record for the lowest tariff for desalinated water as well as the most energy-efficient reverse osmosis technology for the first plant in the world that is fully powered by renewable energy at the Hassyan Power and Water Complex in Dubai,” said Mohammad Abunayyan, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ACWA Power.

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EnvironmentFoodFood & WaterSpecial Reports

Harvard study: Options for a Paris-compliant livestock sector

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

A new first-of-its-kind report, which surveyed 210 experts across 48 countries, warns that to meet climate goals, rapid reductions in global livestock emissions and a shift to plant-based diets are required, especially in high- and middle-income nations.

The report from researchers at Harvard University, New York University, Leiden University, and Oregon State University gathered responses from climate scientists and sustainable food and agriculture researchers, 60 per cent of whom have authored Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports.

It outlined that 92 per cent agree that reducing emissions from the livestock sector is important to limiting temperatures to a maximum of 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and livestock emissions should be reduced as much as possible to reduce the risk of temperatures exceeding 1.5°C (87 per cent) or 2°C (85 per cent). 

It was considered important by 78 per cent of respondents that absolute livestock numbers also peak globally by 2025.

Specifically, it notes that livestock emissions must peak in high-income (HICs) and middle-income countries (MICs) before 2025 and after 2030 in low-income countries (LICs). 

Following this peak, experts agree that livestock emissions should fall rapidly in HICs (89 per cent of respondents) and MICs (75 per cent of respondents), with most agreeing that the livestock sector’s emissions must decrease by 61 per cent by 2036.

Moreover, 85 per cent of experts agree it is important that human diets shift from livestock-derived foods to livestock-replacement foods.

The most substantial shifts would occur among consumers in HICs and MICs. In MICs, consumer diets would be expected to shift to more plant-based diets, while in HICs, consumer diets would be expected to shift to much more plant-based.

In LICs, consumer diets would be expect to shift from current patterns to slightly more plant-based, it was noted. 

For the full report, head here. 

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Food & WaterLatest News

EtihadWE outlines roadmap to support Mohamed Bin Zayed Water Initiative

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has announced its strategic approach to support the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative. 

Launched by UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan back in February, the initiative targets global water scarcity as part of the country’s broader efforts on water. Priority areas include: 

  • Managing water resources sustainably, 
  • Raising awareness of the severity of the crisis, 
  • Bolstering international cooperation
  • Driving investment, and
  • Accelerating technological innovation.

Outlining how its work aligns with the initiative, EtihadWE shared that in recent years, it has invested over two billion AED in enhancing its transmission and storage capabilities through projects like the Khuraijah Water Distribution Center (WDC), one of the largest in the region with 9 x 20 MIG of storage. 

Further, the company, which is the only utility in the UAE with fully Reverse Osmosis (RO) based production, noted that at facilities like NAQA’A, Ghalila, and Zawrah, its RO production capacity totals approximately 190 Million Imperial Gallons per Day (MIGD). 

To reduce the amount of water lost before it reaches the customer due to leaks and metering inaccuracies (Non-Revenue Water (NRW)), EtihadWE is also implementing a comprehensive strategy involving network rehabilitation, district metering establishment, and advanced acoustic inspection using smart ball technology and data loggers. 

This approach is supported by awareness campaigns and the finalisation of a smart metering strategy.

Further, it shared that the water Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) focuses on reducing pumping costs and electricity usage, contributing to the reduction of overall water losses. 

SCADA is a system utilised for remote control and monitoring of industrial processes.

EtihadWE’s efforts also include community engagement through programs like ‘Lel Khair Norashid’ in Water, which highlights water conservation and sustainable usage among the populace.

Yousif Ahmad Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, said: “Innovation underpins our roadmap to combat water scarcity. By leveraging new technologies and our unique RO capabilities, we are taking significant steps to enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of our operations.”

Adding: “Through our initiatives, we are not only improving water reliability and security but also reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in sustainable water management. Our work aligns with the national vision and the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

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Food & WaterLatest News

PMKConsult partners with Surge for Water

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Project and commercial management consultancy PMKConsult has announced a collaboration with Surge for Water geared toward tackling the issue of global water scarcity.

It was shared that globally, over two billion people lack access to safe water, and more than one million deaths annually are attributed to water-related diseases. By joining forces with Surge for Water, PMKConsult will support initiatives aimed at providing sustainable solutions to communities in need.

Surge invests in communities through safe water and sanitation solutions on a global scale to help end the cycle of poverty.

Operating under a community-driven model, the company works with local partners and community members to implement solutions that have been sustainably designed.

Through this partnership, PMKConsult and Surge for Water commit to investing in essential infrastructure, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health education.

The collaboration seeks to empower underserved communities and break the cycle of poverty perpetuated by inadequate access to clean water, the two parties shared.

Shilpa Alva, Founder and Executive Director, Surge, said: “These partnerships will fund critical work in the communities we serve and encourage other supporters to become more involved with Surge’s mission. Hand-in-hand with our partners we can create a happier, healthier world.”

Kevin Woolley, CEO, PMKConsult, added: “PMKConsult’s partnership with Surge for Water emphasizes our dedication to corporate social responsibility, and doing our part to provide resources to address the pressing issue of global water scarcity. By investing in initiatives that promote access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education, we are not only supporting under privileged communities but also contributing to the UAE’s vision of creating a more sustainable future for all.”

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FoodFood & WaterLatest News

Danone Nutricia becomes first GCC FMCG company to secure B Corp certification

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Danone Nutricia Middle East DMCC has announced that it has become the first FMCG company in the GCC to receive B Corporation certification.

The company shared that its sustainability strategy, the Danone Impact Journey, was a key factor in securing the certification. 

The strategy sets out three priorities: 

  • Health through food, 
  • Preserving and regenerating nature, and 
  • People and communities. 

Included in these priorities is Danone’s commitment to decarbonisation in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C. 

The company has committed to net zero by 2050 and has set a roadmap of milestones for the short- and medium-term. 

It aims to achieve a 30 per cent improvement in energy efficiency by 2025, while also sourcing ingredients only from farms that have begun to transition to regenerative agriculture.

Further, all packaging will be 100 per cent recyclable, reusable and compostable by 2030, and methane emissions from products will be reduced by 30 per cent by the end of the decade.

B Corp certifications are earned by operating with the highest levels of accountability and transparency across customers, communities, suppliers, the environment, and employees.

To obtain the B Corp certification, companies undergo a thorough B Impact Assessment from B Lab Company and achieve a minimum score of 80 out of 200.

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FoodFood & WaterLatest News

Bahrain: Edamah and Badia Farms partner for new agricultural project

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Bahrain Real Estate Investment Company (Edamah), the real estate arm of the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), has announced a strategic partnership with Badia Farms, which will see several million dollars invested in a new sustainable farm in the Kingdom of Bahrain. 

Badia Farms focuses on the development and production of different varieties of fruits, vegetables, and plants and was the first commercial high-tech vertical farm in the Gulf region to produce fresh fruits & vegetables year-round. 

Its objective is to transform conventional farm growing methods across the GCC through technology, science and innovation, it was shared. 

Badia Farms secured the land for its project in Hamala, Bahrain, through a bidding process on the Government Land Investment Platform.

Under the agreement, Badia Farms will lease an area of 50,000 sq.m. from Edamah to implement sustainable and urban farming practices.

It will produce a diverse range of fresh fruit and vegetables by implementing the latest hydroponic farming techniques. 

It will recycle water and biodegradable matter for reuse in the project, while solar panels will be used to generate energy.

Utilising hydroponic systems in controlled environments (such as greenhouses), the company said it will be able to ensure year-round crop production, reducing dependence on seasonal variations, with the overarching aim of enhancing Bahrain’s food security and addressing the challenges of limited arable land and water scarcity.

The agreement was signed by Chris Calvert and Eng. Omar Al Jundi, the CEOs of Edamah and Badia Farms respectively, in the presence of Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Al Khulaif, Minister for Sustainable Development and CEO of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Mumtalakat and Chairman of Edamah, Mohammed Alhassan and Pankaj Gupta – co-Founders and co-CEOs of Gulf Islamic Investments Group (GII) – and Saleh Albelushi, a Green Corp director.

His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of Mumtalakat and Chairman of Edamah, commented: “This collaboration with Badia Farms marks a transformative step for Bahrain’s agricultural sector, contributing to the Kingdom’s long-term economic growth. It will contribute to Bahrain’s self-sufficiency in food production by using cutting-edge technologies for a greener future, whilst creating employment and business opportunities for Bahrainis.”

Adding: “This foreign direct investment on Edamah’s land, channeled specifically towards innovative agricultural practices, showcases our confidence in Badia Farms’ approach and underscores the potential for further growth and development within the sector.”

Eng Omar Al Jundi said: “Our partnership with Edamah allows Badia Farms to bring pioneering hydroponic farming techniques to Bahrain, redefining sustainable agriculture. Together, we aim to build a resilient food system, focusing on environmental management and food security.”

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Food & WaterLatest News

World Water Day: Her Excellency Dr. Amna Al Dahak spotlights strengthening water security for stability & social and economic prosperity

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

On World Water Day, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, underlined the crucial role of water security in both fostering stability and supporting social and economic prosperity globally.

In a statement, Her Excellency said: “Water is the fundamental element of life, enabling human societies to stabilize, develop civilizations, and achieve prosperity. Water is the most valuable resource on our planet; it serves as a vital link between humans, food, nature, and climate. However, today, we face significant challenges due to the scarcity of water. It is predicted that half of the world’s population will reside in regions with a shortage of water by as early as 2025. Therefore, this year’s World Water Day theme, ‘Water for Peace’, highlights the urgent need to promptly find sustainable solutions to water-related issues in the most affected areas to ensure global stability.”

HE Dr. Al Dahak added. “The UAE recognizes the significant global challenge of water scarcity. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, is making significant efforts to find sustainable solutions to provide fresh water for all, particularly in the most affected areas. His Highness’s pivotal role in advancing global cooperation in this area is noteworthy. The recently launched Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative is a testament to the efforts of His Highness not only to find solutions to water crises worldwide but also to promote peace and stability for all of humanity.”

HE noted that the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) is committed to using more sustainable methods for water usage, especially with modern agricultural technology.

“We believe that water abundance and sustainability are key to further enhancing development and prosperity in the UAE. Community engagement is integral to our approach, recognizing that individuals are central to our efforts, as water is not only fundamental to human life but also a cornerstone for securing a sustainable future.”

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FoodFood & WaterLatest News

Majid Al Futtaim announces expansion of ‘Feed the Future’ initiative

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Majid Al Futtaim is expanding its food rescue programme ‘Feed the Future’ for Ramadan.

The company will leverage brands across its business to reduce food waste and manage surplus. It is teaming up with technology platform Replate, restaurant partners at Majid Al Futtaim shopping malls, and other brands, including VOX Cinemas and Crate and Barrel, to schedule and manage surplus food donations throughout the month.

Likewise, by collaborating with UAE Food Bank, it will facilitate pickups to ensure that contributions reach charitable organisations and groups.

‘Feed the Future’ was initially launched as a pilot project at flagship Mall of the Emirates across two months, which resulted in over 2,000 meals recovered daily, saving 15kg of food daily, conserving 2.28 million litres of water, and diverting 2,050kg of CO2 from the environment.

Indeed, according to Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence, each day in the UAE, it is estimated that around 38 per cent of food prepared is wasted, and this figure goes even higher during Ramadan.

When this food decomposes, it emits methane – 25 times more damaging than CO2.

Commenting on the announcement, Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director, of the UAE Shopping Malls, at Majid Al Futtaim Properties, said: “We are pleased to partner with the UAE Food Bank and Replate to combat food waste this Ramadan. This initiative aims to minimise waste, and distribute food surplus to beneficiaries nationwide, while reinforcing our commitment to becoming Net Positive by 2040, and aligning with the UAE’s values of generosity and benevolence. We urge all F&B outlets to join us in this cause during the Holy Month, to contribute to food security, and a sustainable future for all.”

Hachem Mahfoud, Strategy & Partnerships at Replate, said: “Our partnership with Majid Al Futtaim on the Feed the Future initiative pioneered by Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls has been nothing short of progressive. We have been working closely with them and the UAE Food Bank to innovate the food rescue model and implement this group-wide initiative at Majid Al Futtaim.”

Adding: “While food insecurity may not be a prevalent issue in the UAE, ensuring access to nutritious food and mitigating climate change remains a top priority and shared vision for all of us. The success of the community fridge model proves that fostering the right partnerships and building trust is crucial for moving forward. Through technology and innovation, we are confident that we can further enhance and scale food recovery programs such as Feed the Future in the UAE, making a positive impact on communities and the environment.”

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EnergyFood & WaterLatest News

ACCIONA organises roundtable for sustainable solutions for water desalination in Qatar

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

ACCIONA recently organised a roundtable discussion titled “Exploring Sustainable Solutions for Water Desalination in Qatar.” 

Held on February 28th 2024, the roundtable was the first such event in Qatar, bringing together experts and stakeholders to discuss advancements and future directions in water desalination.

Qatar, like other countries in the MENA is currently grappling with increasing water scarcity challenges, and has turned to Reverse Osmosis desalination as a key strategy for securing potable water.

It was shared that since 2016, reverse osmosis plants have played a crucial role in Qatar’s water infrastructure. 

Manuel Manjón, CEO of ACCIONA’s water business, commented: “Today’s discussions have not only highlighted the critical role of Reverse Osmosis desalination in Qatar’s water security strategy but also underscored the importance of continuous innovation and international cooperation in pursuing sustainable water solutions. ACCIONA is proud to be at the forefront of this journey, contributing to Qatar’s vision of a water-secure future.”

A roundtable titled: “7 years of Large scale Desalination by Reverse Osmosis in Qatar”, was also held, where Jamal al Khalid, CEO of Umm Al Houl Desalination Plant, Mubarak Al Nasr, CEO of Ras Abu Fontas Desalination Plant and Fernando Cortabitarte, Water Cycle Director at ACCIONA, discussed the strategic significance of RO desalination in Qatar. 

In the discussion, RO technology was highlighted for its capability to meet large-scale water production demands and its adaptability to Qatar’s evolving environmental and sustainability goals. 

On the closing day on February 29th at the 2023 Expo site, ACCIONA’s presentations were led by Juan Manuel Vazquez (Water for agriculture dept.) and Dr. Ana Jiménez Banzo, Head of Innovation MGT & Technology, who shared perspectives on the future of water sustainability in arid regions like Qatar. 

The two highlighted ongoing efforts to innovate and address operational challenges in desalination plants.

Further, Dr. Jimenez Banzo explained ACCIONA’s research-driven approach, citing the development of advanced reverse osmosis membranes and energy-efficient technologies. 

ACCIONA’s participation in the Expo concluded with a discussion on the importance of collaboration and innovation in ensuring a sustainable water future for arid regions.

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