Polylactic Acid – An Emerging Bioplastic

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During the last decade, the movement towards bio-based products has increased dramatically as a result of increasing environment awareness and high increase in fossil fuel prices. That is why companies like Polymer Chemistry Innovations must offer products based on new environmental trends.

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is an eco-friendly bioplastic derived from lactic acid which can be produced by fermentation of renewable resources. It is a new type of biocompatible material produced from utilizing lactic acid as monomer. Since lactic acid is a non-toxic component, which exists in human metabolism, PLA is safe polyester for human-related applications.

PLA-bioplastics

In comparison to traditional plastics, PLA has great potential in the plastic market. Petroleum-based plastic takes hundreds of year to biologically degrade and is manufactured from non-renewable resources. PLA, on the other hand, is recyclable, produced by less energy-intensive process and compostable. Infact, it is a polymer which can be naturally converted to carbon dioxide and water within few years.

Feedstock Selection

Many raw materials could be utilised to produce lactic acid such as, starch, lignocellulosic biomass, agro-industrial wastes, glycerol and microalgae. In order to choose the most suitable biomass for an efficient process, the raw material should have the following characteristic.

  • As cheap as possible to make the maximum profit from the project
  • Low level of contaminants which means less cost on pre-treatment of the biomass to purify the main substrate.
  • Rapid production rate, more harvested product should be obtained per annum.
  • High yield with less by-products formation.
  • Continuous production rate along the year to minimise the raw material storage.

It seems impossible to have 100% ideal raw material so a trade-off decision must be made. Moreover, the combination of more than one raw material is even possible if the second one is given for free, for example, provided that the chosen microorganism can convert both raw materials to lactic acid without an extra cost. Production of lactic acid from waste has been studied by many researchers. However, the two promising materials are paper waste and glycerol. Moreover, potato and corn starch effluent have been used as a free raw materials for lactic acid production.

Glycerol is the main by-product of the biodiesel production process therefore it would be a really cheap feedstock to be used in the production of fuel and chemicals. Ten percent of the total biodiesel production is by-product crude glycerol which could have a negative effect on the environment to be disposed. Production of chemical from this by product could minimise the price of the biodiesel as it is produced at a relatively large quantity.

Office automation paper could be pre-treated and then converted to lactic acid by a specific microorganism. Different types of pulp, hemicellulose, and toner or ink-related compounds can reduce the production rate of lactic acid.

Undoubtedly, the best carbon source for most microorganisms is glucose which could be easily utilized in large scale lactic acid production. The second preferred carbon sources are starch and lignocellulose materials which have been recognized as a cost effective raw material. However, it is more difficult to ferment lignocellulosic biomass than starchy ones to lactic acid. This is because lignocellulosic biomass has cellulose as the polymer which requires physic-chemical pretreatment and multi-enzymatic reactions.

Microorganism Selection

In general, microbial lactic acid is mainly produced by two types of microorganisms which are bacteria and fungi. The enantiomers, yields and concentration of lactic acid depend on the type and the strain of microorganism. Each microorganism requires specific raw material to be utilised to give specific productivity in the optimum culture conditions.

Applications of PLA

PLA finds wide applications due to its unique properties. PLA is being used for food packaging, automobiles, textiles, foams, films etc in Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific. Europe is the dominant market for biodegradable polymers, accounting for more than half of the world consumption.

The key market drivers in Europe include a packaging waste directive to set recovering and recycling targets, a number of plastic bag bans, and other collection and waste disposal laws to avoid landfill. As far as Middle East is concerned, use of PLA or other bioplastics is in nascent stages and its current penetration is very negligible.

فيروس كورونا: فرصة لإعادة النظر

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لطالما اعتقدتُ أنّ ما من شيءٍ يحدثُ دون أن يحمل في طياته رسالة ما، إما أن تكون عامة لفئات كثيرة،  أو خاصة لأشخاصٍ معنيين بها، لعقودٍ طويلةٍ بقي الإنسانُ يؤدّي أعماله ومهامه بكفاءةٍ عالية، لكن هل فعلًا كان يبلي بلاءً حسنا في نهاية المطاف؟ بالرجوعِ للأثرِ البيئيّ لمختلفِ الممارسات التنمويّة في مختلفِ القطاعات نجدُ انتهاكًا كبيرًا للبيئة بوتيرة متسارعة، وعلى مر السنوات تكدّست كميات كبيرة من الملوّثات في بيئاتنا بكل مكوناتها، إضافة إلى استمرارنا غير المبرر في ظلّ هذا التطور الهائل الذي وصلنا إليه نكون قد وقّعنا وثيقة دمار كوكبنا بشكلٍ علنيّ وفي وقتٍ قريب جدًّا خاصة بعد التغيّر المناخيّ الحادّ الذي نشهده.

يُعزى تغير المناخ بشكلٍ مباشر أو غير مباشر للنشاط البشريّ الذي غيّر ويستمر في تغيير تركيبة الغلاف الجوي العالميّ، فحسب منظمة الصحة العالميّة؛ فإنّ المناخ أثّر على انتقال بيولوجيا الأمراض البشريّة، حيث من الممكن أن تتسبّب الحالات الشاذة المرتفعة لدرجات الحرارة، ومعدات الهطول بنقل عدد من الأوبئة التي تحتاج أوساطا حيوية أو عن طريق المياه لتنتقل. 

كما أن درجات الحرارة المرتفعة يمكن أن تسبّب أمراض القلب والأوعية الدموية، ناهيك عن الارتباط الوثيق بين درجة الحرارة والرطوبة النسبية وجودة الهواء الذي يعود بالضرر على مرضى الجهاز التنفسي وزيادة حساسيتهم. 

مثلما تبيّن لنا منذ بدء أزمة (فيروس كورونا) أنّ الفيروس يؤثر بشكل أكبر على مرضى القلب والجهاز التنفسي ويشكّل خطرًا على حياتهم يؤدّي بالغالب إلى الوفاة. 

لنفكّر للحظة

 كلّ فردٍ منا يجب أن يتحمّل ما سيحدث بعد انتهاء هذه الأزمة، ويكون قادرا على تحمّل المسؤولية الملقاة على عاتقنا جميعا، وهي مسؤولية التغيير، نحن هنا لا نتحدث عن تغيير جذريّ وكامل، فهو أشبه بالمستحيل لكن شيئا فشيئا يمكننا أن نتحوّل إلى استخدام الطاقة البديلة مثلا أكثر من قبل، بالطبع سنجد بعض الصعوبة فنحن لا نملك الإمكانات كافة التي تساعدنا على ذلك بشكل نستطيع به مجاراة استخدام البترول، الوقود الأحفوري كمصادر أساسية وقد تكون في بعض الدول الوحيدة للطاقة. 

علينا أن ننتبه جيّدا لنمط حياتنا، والأساليب التي نعيش بها، وأن يأخذ كل منا بعين الاعتبار أن التغيير يجب أن يتضمّن التفاصيل الحياتية جميعها من أبسطها، أدقها، إلى أهمها وأكبرها. بالطبع، لا يمكن للفرد وحده القيام بكل ذلك، والتغيير سيكون فرديّ دون إحداث التغيير في شتَى قطاعات الدولة، وعلى رأسها قطاع الصناعة؛ الذي يتحمّل المسؤولية الأكبر، كونه مساهم رئيسي في التلوث الذي بات كابوسًا يُلاحقنا حتى في يقظتنا. فبسبب صعوبة التحول في النظم الصناعية يتحتّم علينا إيجاد طرق مناسبة لتقليل التلوث إلى أدنى حدٍ يمكن الوصول إليه، مخفضين الآثار البيئية كذلك، وهذا من شأنه أن يرفع الكفاءة العامة للمنشأة حيث أن المخرجات الثانوية أي الملوثات يمكن تحويلها بطريقة أو بأخرى إلى مدخلات مثل الاستفادة من الحرارة الضائعة وتخزينها على شكل طاقة يمكن الاستفادة منها لاحقا، كما يمكن الاستفادة من المعادن الثقيلة والمياه الصناعية والأبخرة والأدخنة كل حسب طريقة الاستفادة الممكنة. 

كما يتحمل القطاع الزراعي مسؤولية واضحة وكبيرة في مكافحة التلوث.. قد يُهَيَّأ لنا في كثير من الأحيان أن الزراعة نشاط صديق للبيئة، لكن يمكن أن يكون أداة تدمير إذا لم يتم إدارته بالشكل الصحيح؛ من خلال ما تحدثه الخيارات الزراعية الخاطئة من آثار جانبية تدمّر التربة والمياه الجوفية والسطحية والثروة الحيوانية وبالتالي صحة الإنسان، التحول للزراعة العضوية كان في الماضي ترفًا لكنه أصبح الآن ضرورة للعيش والاستمرار بصحة جيدة.

علينا أن نعيد ترتيب أولوياتنا! … لذلك فالسؤال الآن ما الذي يمكننا فعله؟   

علينا إعادة النظر في كل شيء نفعله وتعلُّم القيام به في الوجه الصحيح هو طوق النجاة الذي سيعود بنا حيث  بر الأمان، حيث البيئة الآمنة التي تمنحنا الحب والعافية.. قراءة نشرات الطاقة على أجهزتنا المحمولة لا يكلّف شيئا، والعمل بالإرشادات سيوفر الكثير من الجهود، المحافظة على المياه من الهدر واستخدام طرق الحصاد المائي، كما إعادة النظر في المواد الكيميائية التي نستخدمها أمر في غاية الأهمية، العودة للمواد الطبيعية وتجنّب المواد المصنّعة سيعود بالنفع على كل من الإنسان والبيئة، واعتماد الأغذية الصحيّة وتجنب الطعام الملوث والمصنّع سيساهم في تعزيز صحتنا الجسدية والعقلية، حيث أن وكما نردد دائما: العقل السليم في الجسم السليم، والعقل السليم خلّاق، سيقودنا للمزيد من الحلول التي نحتاجها.

((دعونا نجعل التطور الذي وصلنا إليه وسيلة للحد من مشاكلنا بدلا من أن يكون حلًا تصاحبه مشكلات أعقد.))

عودة لعنوان المقال، نحن لسنا بصدد مناقشة سبب انتشار هذا الفيروس؛ لأن علم الفيروسات علم قائم بذاته، ولكن على كل شخص قراءة معطيات وتبعات كل ما يحدث حوله ومحاولة استنباط الرسالة التي يحملها كل حدث، ولا أظن أن انتشار الفيروس  حصل بمعزل عن الظروف البيئية التي نعيشها. 

وهذا ما وفقنا الله لفهمه وسددنا إليه، وبتعبير التوحيدي-رحمه الله- نقول: اللهم إنا نبرأ من الثقة إلا بك، ومن الأمل إلا فيك، ومن التسليم إلا لك، ومن التفويض إلا إليك، ومن التوكل إلا عليك، ومن الطلب إلا منك، ومن الصبر إلا على بلائك، اللهم تتابع برك واتصل خيرك وعظم رفدك وتناهى إحسانك وصدق وعدك وبرَّ قسمك وعمت فواضلك وتمت نوافلك، ولم تبق لنا حاجة إلا وقد قضيتها أو تكفلت بقضائها فاختم ذلك كله بالرضا والمغفرة، إنك أهل لذلك والقادر عليه

التغير المناخي وقمة باريس: الإجماع البيئي العالمي

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مما لا شك فيه أن قمة المناخ في باريس أظهرت جليا مدى قوة الخطاب البيئي ودبلوماسية البيئة  وقدرتها على توحيد الأمم وقادة العالم والمجتمع المدني لحماية الأمن الأنساني-البيئي.هذا الإتفاق يقتضي إالتزامات من كافة الدول مثل التكيف وتخفيف آثار التغير المناخي ودعم الدول النامية ونقل التقنية النظيفة للحد من حرارة الكوكب بما لا يزيد عن درجتين مئويتين أو أقل لغاية  (1.5  للعام 2050.  لكن هذا الإتفاق بحاجة إلى استثمار (100 بليون سنويا بحلول عام 2020) من دول الشمال الصناعي تجاه العالم النامي حيث أن ما نسبته عشرة بالمئة من الدول الصناعية تساهم بما قيمته خمسين بالمئة من إنبعاثات غاز ثاتي أكسيد الكربون. وكذلك هذا الإتفاق بحاجة إلى موافقة البرلمانات لأنه ما زالت أصوات تنادي بعدم المصادقة على إتفاق يحد من النمو الإقتصادي.

قد يبدو للبعض أن الإتفاق كان واقعيا ودون الطموح لكنه خطوة متقدمة عن كوبنهاجن وأقرته الدول النامية ومن ضمنها الهند والصين والدول النامية والعربية. القيادة العالمية لأكثر من 190 دولة وازنت بين علم المناخ وسياسة المناخ وتجاوزت أزمة الفعل الجمعي عبر إعتماد مشاركة الدول الطوعية بخفض الإنبعاثات بشفافية شريطة مراجعة مساهمات كل دولة قبل العام 2020. لكن يبقى التساؤل عن مدى عقلانية العالم في التفاوض على مستقبلنا المشترك على هذا الكوكب الهش. إذا كان علم المناخ هو الذي يرفد القرار لحماية الحياة على الأرض فما مدى هامش التفاوض لدى قادة العالم خاصة وأن شعار القمة “ليس لدينا كوكب آخر”.

اتفاق باريس أقر بوجود فجوة بين تعهدات الدول لخفض الإنبعاثات والهدف المنشود للوصول لأرتفاع حرارة الأرض بمقدار درجتين ولكنه حدد مبدأ العدالة والمسؤولية المشتركة لكن المتباينة للحد من التلوث وكذلك ربط عدالة المناخ بحقوق الإنسان لم يرد إلا في المقدمة. هناك مراجعة كل خمس سنوات للتأكد من مدى الإلتزام وهناك نص يفيد بأنه يجب على الدول زيادة نسبة الإلتزام مع الزمن لتحقيق الهدف المنشود ضمن الأاتزام الطوعي لكل دولة. ومع حلول عام 2025 سيتم تحديد قيمة الألتزام المالي بمقدار 100 بليون كل عام وكيفية وآلية جمعه وصرفه. هناك آليات للتواصل ولتبيان مدى الإلتزام للدوا الصناعية كل سنتين. هذه كلها إنجازات ضمن سياسة فن الممكن في عالم تحكمه أجندات ومصالح الدول الصناعية. لكن أدركت الدول النامية أنها يجب أن تجلس على طاولة المفاوضات وتطالب بحقها وإلا فلن يجدي منطق التشكيك بعلم المناخ ومصداقية قمة المناخ.

لكن جوهر المشكلة البيئية مرتبط بنمط التنمية والإستهلاك والإنتاج الذي أدى إلى تدهور الأنظمة البيئية نتيجة نسق التفكير الغربي، ونمط التنمية الغربية اللذين يعتمدان مبدأ النمو لأجل النمو، والتشجيع على الاستهلاك المفرط. إن البقاء على نفس وتيرة النمو هو الذي أدى الى حالة تردي حالة الحياة الإنسانية، المتمثّلة في إزدياد هوة الفقر والجوع والتلوث. تكمن أهمية قمة المناخ في باريس في طرح الإسئلة الجوهرية المرتبطة بالعدالة البيئية والمواطنة البيئية ومسؤلية الملوث في الدعم المالي والتقني وبناء قدرة دول العالم النامي لمواجهة آثار التغير المناخي.  المسؤلية الإنسانية عن أمن الكوكب وعمارة الأرض هي مسؤولية الجميع لأنه لا إنفصال بين الأمن البيئي والإنساني. التحول للطاقة النظيفة والمتجددة وكذلك تعديل ومراجعة نمط التنمية يعد ضرورة للحد من ظاهرة التغيّر المناخي. إن هذا التلوث الذي يفوق الطاقة الإستيعابية للكوكب  هو دليل على فشل آلية السوق في حماية البيئة وما يرافق تدهورها من أخطار على الأمن الغذائي والمائي والإنساني. قمة المناخ تعطينا درسا أساسيا في أنه لا يمكن تحديد إطار القيادة الإنسانية للعالَم بالدول القطرية، وقصره عليها بمنأى عن المسؤوليات الأخلاقية والإنسانية للجميع تجاه الكوكب، وتجاه الجيل القادم، وتجاه فقراء العالَم؛ إذا رغبنا تحقيق تنمية المستدامة في ظلّ حكم عالمي عادل ورشيد.

لقد شهد القرن العشرين جدلاً واسعاً حول الأثر السلبي لنمط التنمية الغربي، ومفهومه للنمو، وربطه للسعي نحو السعادة من خلال الاستهلاك المفرط، وتحويل الكماليات إلى ضروريات. كما تعرّض البيئيون لنقد نمط التنمية الغربي وأثره السلبي في تدهور الموارد الطبيعية، وتلوّث الماء والهواء والتربة. والآن، ونحن في بداية القرن الحادي والعشرين، فإنّا نشهد نموّاً متصاعداً لدول آسيا، من مثل: الصين، والهند. فالنمو المتصاعد في الصين مثلاً يقتضي استهلاكاً واستنزافاً لموارد الكوكب، من مثل: الحبوب، واللحوم، والحديد، والأخشاب، والطاقة؛ ممّا يدعونا إلى التحقّق من جدوى محاكاة النموذج الغربي، من حيث: الاستهلاك المفرط، واستخدام الطاقة الأحفورية (غاز، فحم، نفط)، وهو ما يُؤثِّر سلبياً في صحة الإنسان، ويضر بالكوكب والاقتصاد.

من المهم هنا بيان الفرق بين التنمية والنمو؛ فالنمو يرنو إلى جعل الأشياء أكبر، بينما تهدف التنمية إلى جعل الأشياء أفضل. وعلى الرغم من زيادة الإنتاج العالمي مرات تقريباً خلال المئة سنة الماضية، إلّا أنّ ذلك أدى إلى تدهور في النظام البيئي لم تشهده البشرية في تاريخها، وهو صورة من صور إهلاك الحرث والنسل، والفساد في الأرض بما كسبت أيدي الناس. ومن وجهة النظر الاقتصادية، فحين يصبح النمو غير فاعل اقتصاديّاً نتيجة الآثار السلبية والجانبية، فلا بُدّ من مراجعة نمط التنمية، وطرائق قياس النمو التي تعتمد الدخل القومي GNP))؛ لأنّها لا تُقدِّم صورة حقيقية للنمو.

ومن المحزن حقّاً أنّ الحروب والتسلح والإحتلال وسيادة ثقافة الإستهلاك في عالمنا العربي تفضي إلى تلويث البيئة وزيادة تركيز انبعاثات الكربون، وإحداث خلل في التوازن الكوني والحالة الطبيعية ((Natural State أو الفطرة، ويظهر ذلك جليّاً في ما نعيشه اليوم من آثار التغيّر المناخي أو الاحتباس الحراري، التي يُهدِّد الحرث والنسل ومستقبل البشرية، وكل ذلك مرتبط بخياراتنا ونمط حياتنا وبما كسبت أيدي الناس. إنّ عولمة السوق الاقتصادية، تستدعي إيجاد آليات مناسبة للمجتمع المدني للتعبير عن الرأي الآخر بحرية،ويتمكن من نصح  ونقد المجتمع والسياسات العامة لأن كل ذلك هذه الإجراءات تُشكِّل صمام أمان اجتماعي وثقافي يُسهِم في خدمة المهمَّشين والفقراء. إن قدرة المجتمع المدني من أن يطرح خطاباً ورؤيةً مشتركةً للتصالح مع كل ما يحيط بنا، ضمن منظومة متناغمة للاقتصاد والثقافة البيئية هو مؤشر على إستدامة المجتمع.

ولعل أحد أهم الدروس التي يمكن أن نتعلّمها من أصحاب الحضارات القديمة، هو عجزهم عن استشراف المستقبل وإدراكه والتصدي لمخاطر المناخ. انهارت وبادت حضارات لعدم تحقيق شروط الإستدامة والعدالة الإجتماعية، وعدم نجاحهم في التوصّل إلى حلول ناجمة للمشاكل المتعلقة بالأمن الغذائي-المائي-الطاقة؛ لقد اندثرت حضارات مثل سبأ والمايا لأسباب عدّة؛ أبرزها: تدمير الموارد الطبيعية (رأس المال الطبيعي) بالاستغلال الجائر للغابات، وانجراف التربة، وتغيّر المناخ، وموجات الجفاف، بالإضافة إلى النزاعات والحروب، وعدم التصدي للمشاكل الرئيسة التي تعيق التنمية. وهذا يدعونا إلى إعادة النظر في طرائق قياس تقدّم المجتمع التي تعتمد معايير اقتصادية محددة وغير دقيقة، من مثل: الدخل القومي (GNP)، أو مؤشر التنمية البشرية (HDI) ومؤشر الإستدامة.

لذا حتى تحقق قمة المناخ مبدأ العدالة البيئية لا بد من تحديد المسؤولية التاريخية عن الخلل في توازن الكوكب والتصدي من أجلتحقيق أهداف التنمية المستدامة لما بعد 2015. إن تعدي الدول الصناعية والشركات العابرة القارات على موارد العالَم النامي وسلب السكان الأصليين حقوقهم بذريعة الأمن القومي وأمن الموارد والطاقة، وفي ذلك إزدواجية في معايير العدالة والنزاهة ؛ فالحروب والنزاعات في كلٍّ من: العراق، والسودان، وفلسطين وغيرها، هي خير شاهد على مدى الفساد الذي ألحقته هذه الحروب بالإنسان والبيئة، فضلاً عن تراجع فرص التنمية مقابل التسلّح.

إنّ المتأمّل للكّم الهائل المتسارع لتردي حالة الأرض من تصحر وتلوث وما يرافقه من حجم التسلح والفقر وتراجع ومؤشرات التنمية في المنطقة العربية  ومعدلات الفقر والبطالة والتشرد في المنطقة العربية؛ سيهوله مدى استفحال مناحي الفساد في هذه المنطقة. إنّ فهم فقه المقاصد وعمارة الأرض وصناعة الحياة تُؤكِّد القاعدة “درء المفاسد مُقدِّم على جلب المصالح”. لذا، يجب مراعاة مبدأ الحيطة (Precautionary Principle)، الذي يقضي بعدم إحداث خلل في الإنسان والبيئة، وهذا المبدأ هو نقيض المبدأ المعتَمد في النظام الرأسمالي، الذي ينص على أنّ “الـمُلوِّث هو الذي يدفع” (Polluters Pay)؛ أي أنّه يمكن تعويض الـمُتضرِّر عن آثار التلوّث، وهذا خلل واضح في التفكير؛ إذ إنّ بعض أنواع التلوّث لا يمكن معالجة آثارها (Irreversible). كما لا يمكن تعويض الخلل في النظام الطبيعي بالمال.

إن جوهر الأزمة البيئية يكمن في حرص الدول الغنية (10% منها تسهم في %50 من التلوث العالمي ) على وتيرة النمو المضطرد ونمط الحياة، بينما يطالب الآخرون (50% منهم يسهموا في 10% من التلوث) بالحد من التلوث ودفع ثمن التلوث الذي عمره أكثر من ثلاثة قرون من التقدم الصناعي في دول الشمال. خلاصة القول إنّنا بأمس الحاجة إلى تطوير فكر جديد لحساب تلوث المناخ بحيث يعتبر الإستهلاك ضمن المعادلة لأن العديد من السلع يتم إنتاجها في دول خارج الدول المستهلكة. قمة باريس تذكرنا أن القرار السياسي يسمع لصوت العلم وللمجتمع المدني لكن هذا الإتفاق يمثل إزاحة في الفكر البيئي بحيث تتحمل كل دولة حصتها “العادلة والمعقولة” ضمن منطق المنفعة الإقتصادية. إن حماية هذا الكوكب تعني بالضرورة أن علينا جميعا تمثُّل أخلاقيات عمارة الكون التي  تتطلّب توازناً  محكماً بين رأس المال الاجتماعي والإنساني والطبيعي؛ حتى لا نُثِقل كاهل الأرض بمخلّفات تُفضي إلى حرمان الجيل القادم من الحياة الطيبة ، وحتى لا ينتهي بنا المطاف إلى حالة “بئر معطلة وقصر مشيد”.

Cryptocurrency Mining in UAE

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The United Arab Emirates is a growing hub for digital currency, with an increasing number of citizens and businesses investing in various digital currencies. As the popularity of virtual currency grows in the UAE, it has become an attractive destination for cryptocurrency miners to set up operations. This article will explore the history, regulations, and policies related to cryptocurrency mining in the UAE as well as discuss some of the opportunities and challenges for crypto miners in this region.

bitcoin mining in UAE

What is Cryptocurrency and Crypto Mining

Cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that can be used to transfer funds between individuals or organizations without requiring a third-party intermediary. Cryptocurrencies use cryptography to secure transactions and are stored on blockchain networks. Cryptocurrency miners are individuals or companies that use powerful computers and specialized software to validate transactions on the blockchain, in exchange for rewards paid out in cryptocurrency.

History of Crypto Mining in the UAE

The first crypto mining in UAE started in 2017. Since then, there has been an impressive growth in the number of miners operating from within the country, with some estimates suggesting there could be around 1,000 active miners currently based in the UAE. This is due to a favorable regulatory environment which makes it relatively easy for businesses to set up crypto mining operations compared with other countries.

Regulations and Policies

The Central Bank of UAE does not recognize virtual currencies as legal tender but has a clear set of regulations and policies on how to control them. The UAE government also encourages the use and development of blockchain technology, with initiatives such as Dubai Blockchain Strategy 2020 which aims to make Dubai the global blockchain leader.

Challenges and Opportunities for Crypto Miners

The main challenge for miners in the UAE is the high cost of electricity. This is compounded by the stiff competition from large mining farms located outside of the country. Despite these issues, there are still many opportunities for miners in UAE due to its supportive regulations, favorable geographical location and access to cheap labor.

FAQ

Is it legal in UAE?

Yes, it is legal to mine cryptocurrency in the UAE. The Central Bank of the UAE has put in place regulations and policies to control virtual currencies but does not recognize them as legal tender.

choosing the right cryptocurrency exchange

Is it profitable there?

Yes, it is possible to make a profit from cryptocurrency mining in the UAE. However, due to high electricity costs and increased competition from large mining farms located outside of the country, miners must consider their setup carefully in order to maximize profits.

Are there any government initiatives?

Yes, the UAE government has launched several initiatives to promote the use and development of blockchain technology. For example, Dubai Blockchain Strategy 2020 aims to make Dubai the global leader in blockchain innovation.

Conclusion

Cryptocurrency mining in the UAE is an emerging industry that offers both challenges and potential rewards for those willing to take the risk. The country has a supportive regulatory environment and is home to some of the world’s biggest crypto miners. It remains to be seen if the UAE can maintain its competitive edge in this rapidly changing industry and continue to attract new miners in the coming years.

بصمة خضراء… حكاية الكربون ٢/٤

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من الانبعاث إلى العزل: فهم التقاط الكربون

في ظل تنامي التحديات المناخية، أصبحت مسألة خفض انبعاثات ثاني أكسيد الكربون أكثر إلحاحًا من أي وقت مضى. فالعالم اليوم يقف أمام معادلة معقّدة: الحاجة المستمرة للطاقة، والنمو الاقتصادي، مقابل ضرورة حماية المناخ والأنظمة البيئية. ورغم التوسع في استخدام الطاقة المتجددة، لا يزال الاعتماد على الوقود الأحفوري قائمًا في قطاعات واسعة مثل الصناعة الثقيلة، والطيران، والإسمنت، والبتروكيماويات. هذه القطاعات لا يمكن إزالة الكربون منها بسهولة أو بسرعة، ما يجعل الحلول التقليدية وحدها غير كافية. هنا برزت تقنية «التقاط الكربون» كأداة تصحيحية لإدارة الانبعاثات، لا كبديل عن التحول الطاقي، بل كمكمّل له. فبدل ترك ثاني أكسيد الكربون ينطلق إلى الغلاف الجوي ويتراكم فيه لعقود، تتيح هذه التقنية اعتراضه عند المصدر أو سحبه من الهواء قبل أن يتحول إلى عبء مناخي طويل الأمد. المشكلة ليست في انبعاثات اليوم فقط، بل في تراكمات الأمس، وفي الفجوة الزمنية بين طموحات الحياد الكربوني والواقع الصناعي القائم. ومن هنا، يصبح التقاط الكربون أحد الحلول العملية للتعامل مع هذا الفراغ، وإدارة المرحلة الانتقالية نحو اقتصاد منخفض الانبعاثات.

carbon capture technologies

التقاط الكربون (Carbon Capture) هو ببساطة عملية تهدف إلى منع ثاني أكسيد الكربون من الوصول إلى الغلاف الجوي. وتتم هذه العملية عادة عبر ثلاث مراحل رئيسية مترابطة. المرحلة الأولى هي «الالتقاط»، حيث يُفصل ثاني أكسيد الكربون عن الغازات المنبعثة من مصادر صناعية كبيرة مثل محطات توليد الكهرباء أو المصانع. يتم ذلك باستخدام مواد كيميائية قادرة على امتصاص الغاز أو فصله عن باقي المكونات. بعد ذلك تأتي مرحلة «النقل»، حيث يُضغط الغاز الملتقط ويُنقل عبر أنابيب أو شاحنات مخصصة إلى مواقع التخزين أو الاستخدام، وغالبًا ما تُستَخدم بنية تحتية مشابهة لتلك المستخدمة في نقل الغاز الطبيعي. أما المرحلة الثالثة فهي «التخزين أو الاستخدام». في حالة التخزين، يُحقن ثاني أكسيد الكربون في تكوينات جيولوجية عميقة تحت الأرض، مثل طبقات الصخور المالحة أو آبار النفط والغاز المستنفدة، حيث يبقى معزولًا عن الغلاف الجوي لفترات طويلة. وفي حالة الاستخدام، يُعاد توظيف الكربون في تصنيع منتجات جديدة، مثل الوقود الاصطناعي أو مواد البناء، ضمن ما يُعرف بتقنيات CCU (Carbon Capture and Utilization) بهذه الصورة، يتحول الكربون من نفاية غير مرئية إلى مادة مُدارة بوعي.

في الواقع العملي، تلعب تقنيات التقاط الكربون دورًا متزايد الأهمية في السياسات المناخية العالمية. فهي تُعدّ وسيلة أساسية لتحقيق الحياد الكربوني، خصوصًا في القطاعات التي يصعب خفض انبعاثاتها جذريًا في المدى القريب. كما تُنظر إليها كحل تصحيحي لتراكمات الماضي، إذ تسهم في تقليل كميات الكربون التي انبعثت بالفعل أو التي لا يمكن تجنب انبعاثها حاليًا. إضافة إلى ذلك، تتيح هذه التقنيات للدول مواصلة بعض الأنشطة الاقتصادية الحيوية دون تجاوز حدود الانبعاثات المتفق عليها دوليًا. لكن رغم هذه الأهمية، تواجه تقنيات التقاط الكربون تحديات حقيقية. من أبرزها ارتفاع التكاليف التشغيلية، خاصة في تقنيات الالتقاط المباشر من الهواء، والحاجة إلى بنية تحتية ضخمة للنقل والتخزين، إضافة إلى ضرورة وجود أطر تنظيمية وتشريعية واضحة تضمن أمان التخزين على المدى الطويل. ومع ذلك، يشهد هذا المجال تطورًا تقنيًا متسارعًا، مدفوعًا بالاستثمار، والبحث العلمي، والالتزام الدولي المتزايد بأهداف المناخ. ومع مرور الوقت، من المتوقع أن تنخفض التكاليف وتزداد كفاءة هذه الحلول.

التقاط الكربون ليس حلًا سحريًا، ولا ينبغي أن يُستخدم كذريعة للاستمرار في التلوث، لكنه في الوقت ذاته ليس ترفًا تقنيًا يمكن تجاهله. هو أداة ضرورية في معركة معقّدة تتطلب مزيجًا من الحلول، تشمل التحول الطاقي، وكفاءة الاستهلاك، وتغيير أنماط الإنتاج، إلى جانب إدارة الكربون المنبعث. جوهر الفكرة ليس في «إخفاء» الكربون، بل في تحمّل مسؤولية ما نطلقه إلى البيئة، ومعالجة آثاره بدل تركها للأجيال القادمة. حين نلتقط الكربون، نحن نعترف بأن أفعالنا لها تبعات، وبأن الحلول الواقعية أحيانًا تكون تدريجية لا ثورية. المستقبل المناخي لا يُبنى بخيار واحد، بل بسلسلة قرارات واعية، كل منها يخفف العبء قليلًا. التقاط الكربون قد لا يكون نهاية الحكاية، لكنه خطوة صادقة في الاتجاه الصحيح، ومحاولة لإعادة التوازن بين حاجات الإنسان وحدود الكوكب. وفي هذا التوازن، يكمن الأمل في أن تبقى التنمية ممكنة… دون أن تكون على حساب الأرض.

Environmental Challenges in Saudi Arabia’s Oil and Gas Industry

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Despite the efforts of global society and scientists to reduce the dependency on oil and gas as a main source of energy and find new green and renewable energy sources, the oil remains the most effective one. The oil production rate has increased incrementally from the 1970s to the 2020s, which is driven by the demand for oil.

peak-oil-middle-east

A Global Problem

The main problem with the dependence on oil and gas as a primary source of energy lies in the huge pollution caused by the industry. For example, oil enterprises and petroleum companies currently release about 2000 tons of chemicals in the atmosphere and discharge about 70 million tons of polluted wastewater to sea per annum.

This amount of continuous pollution, which is a result of normal activities, not accidents, forms the second major threatening to the entire ecosystem and humankind’s life. The major sources of pollution in across the world are vehicular emissions and industrial discharges. Infact, the urban atmosphere is 90% polluted with automobile transport residue, especially in the big cities.

The oil and gas industry is paying increased attention on protecting the environment especially after the new environmental regulations in the globe supported by specialist organizations like API, IPIECA, and OGP. Unfortunately, there is no practically 100% safe operation for plants and pipelines networks in oil processing. So, risks such as oil spills and gaseous emissions are essential features of the energy industry.

Situation in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian authority for environment referred to as ‘The General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP)’, pays great attention to protect the country’s environment. This is also reflected in Saudi Aramco pollution concerns where the importance is given to control and monitor pollution at both the coasts – eastern and western.

It is well known that in Saudi Arabian oil and gas industry, most activities are located offshore. So, oil spills and potential accidents with pipelines, facilities, oil tankers, or rigs, are very much existent and having serious negative impact on marine life and public health.

Havoc Caused by Oil Spills

Oil spill is considered to be the most environmentally challenging aspect of oil production for two reasons. First, because offshore spills are usually hard to control due to the nature of the offshore environment and tide movement. Second, because of the huge harm that the oil spill puts on marine habitats which in turn is considered as the main source of food for the community.

Scientific studies have shown that when an oil spill occurs offshore, the oil film on the surface contains 60% of hydrocarbon of which 50% is evaporated into the atmosphere. In addition, below sea surface the hydrocarbon percentage reaches 30%, This percentage is decreases to 10% at a depth of 100 meters. Unfortunately, the below surface area forms the living area of marine growth which in turn forms the food for most kinds of fish. Click here to know how microbes can help in environmental restoration.

Bioremediation is a popular method to treat oil spills in seas and on beaches.

Moreover, oil spills may occur at any time with no pretending or expectation. This is because they are a result of oil operation activities failures or accidents. For example, flaring and venting, decommissioning of oil and gas installations, oil storage tanks disposal, drilling activities etc. Oil spills can be a source of escalated accidents as well and entail potential risks. Oil spill in the offshore area requires international collaboration and pre-set contingency response plan to control it and limit its harmlessness. The governmental authority put oil spills in high priority accidents’ classification after the fire.

The Menace of Emissions

The second environmental challenge facing Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas industry is CO2 emission. As a result of necessary and ordinary flaring and manufacturing process activities that take place in refineries and gas oil separation plants, the increasing amount of CO2 is being released to the atmosphere. CO2 affects the quality of air and works to increase the global temperature.

The air quality improvement concept is part of article 2 of the General Environment Law. It is also linked to the 10th,11th, and 13th sustainable development goals (SDGs) for sustainable cities and communities in UN protocols. As a member of G20 countries, Saudi Arabia has submitted a national climate plan to the UN. It also committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 130 million tons by 2030.

It is worthy to mention here that the energy sector contributes about 92% of CO2 emission, and 66% of which is from electricity generation, desalination, and land transportation. The Saudi electrical company had also announced its plans to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels and invest in renewable energy. However, it seems challenging to fulfill the huge need for electricity from solar energy despite the sunny weather that Saudi Arabia enjoys.

The Way Forward

The boom in industrial activities and investment in Saudi Arabia is demanding more power. As we know the modern factories and manufacturing processes require increasing flux of electricity, other than the expanding cities. Globally, it is challenging to continue on hydrocarbon production with low cost and simultaneously adhere to environmental regulations and social responsibility.

Therefore, the balance between booming industrial activities in Saudi Arabia and its demand for power and the CO2 emission reduction need is challenging to go through. One of the alternative power sources which are being discussing by the Saudi government is the nuclear power as it can produce power more efficiently than fossil fuel and solar energy despite its controversial nature.

The two issues, oil spills, and CO2 emission carry negative effects on the global climate. That is why global collaboration and united regulations should be followed to ease tackling these issues or reduce their negative impacts.

As a conclusion, the Saudi Arabia transformational movements to meet the objectives of Vision 2030 can be a fixing tool for the environmental challenges it faces. For example, utilizing artificial intelligence in designing environment-friendly factories, increase the awareness of global environmental concerns among the business sector, or investing in industrial recycling facilities, besides developing new environment protection legislation and policies. Saudi Arabia’s approach facing the environmental challenges and the global climate issues is encouraging and promising and reflects its role as a member of the G20 country group.

Information Sources

Kapsarc.org. 2017. [online] Available at: <https://www.kapsarc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/KS-2017-MP04-GCC-Energy-Overview-2017.pdf>  [Accessed 20 March 2020].

Gossen, L. and Velichkina, L., 2006. Environmental problems of the oil-and-gas industry (Review). Petroleum Chemistry, 46(2), pp.67-72.

UNDP. 2018. Sustainable Natural Resources Management | UNDP In Saudi Arabia.

Food Waste, Ramadan and the Middle East

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With the holy month of Ramadan already underway, huge food wastage in the Middle East is again hogging limelight. It is a widely accepted fact that almost half of the municipal solid waste stream in the Middle East is comprised of food wastes and associated matter. The increasing amount of food wastage in Ramadan urgently demands a strong and holistic food management strategy to ensure its minimization, ethical utilization and eco-friendly disposal.

iftar-party-food-waste

Food Waste in Ramadan

Middle Eastern nations are acknowledged as being the world’s top food wasters, and during Ramadan the situation takes a turn for the worse. In the GCC nations, as per conservative estimates, around 50 percent of the food prepared during Ramadan is wasted.

In 2012, the Dubai Municipality estimated that in Ramadan, around 55% of household waste (or approximately 1,850 tons is thrown away every day. An estimated 4500 tons of food is wasted across Saudi Arabia during Ramadan. Food waste generation in Bahrain exceeds 400 tons per day during the holy month, according to Rehan Ahmad, Head of Waste Disposal Unit (Bahrain). As far as Qatar is concerned, almost half of the food prepared during Ramadan find its way into garbage bins.

The amount of food waste generated in Ramadan is significantly higher than other months. There is a chronic inclination of Muslims towards over-indulgence and lavishness in the holy month, even though the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), asked Muslims to adopt moderation in all walks of life. Socio-cultural attitudes and lavish lifestyles also play a major role in more food waste generation in Ramadan in almost all Muslim countries.

food waste in ramadan

Economic Implications

The greater the economic prosperity and the higher percentage of urban population, the greater the amount of waste produced. A good example is the case of oil‐rich GCC which figures among the world’s most prolific per capita waste generators. High-income groups usually generate more food waste per capita when compared to less-affluent groups. Hotels, cafeterias, restaurants etc. are also a big contributor of food wastes in the Middle East during the holy month of Ramadan.

Food waste generation is expected to steadily with the rapid growth of regional economies boom. The per capita production of solid waste in Arab cities such as Riyadh, Doha and Abu Dhabi is more than 1.5 kg per day, placing them among the highest per capita waste producers in the world. These statistics point to loss of billions of dollars each year in the form of food waste throughout the Arab world, especially during Ramadan.

food wastage during Ramadan

The Way Forward

The foremost steps to reduce food wastage are behavioral change, increased public awareness, strong legislations, food banks, recycling facilities (composting and biogas plants) and community participation. Effective laws and mass sensitization campaigns are required to compel the people to adopt waste minimization practices and implement sustainable lifestyles.

During Ramadan, religious scholars and prayer-leaders can play a vital role in motivating Muslims to follow Islamic principles of sustainability, as mentioned in the Holy Quran and Hadith The best way to reduce food waste is to feel solidarity towards millions and millions of people around the world who face enormous hardships in having a single meal each day.

Energy and the Climate: Perspectives for the Middle East

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Since energy is an absolute necessity for life on Earth, we have utilized many sources of energy to maintain and improve the lives of people around the globe. The ultimate source of energy is the Sun of course, since all living things on Earth such as plants, trees, animals, and humans need the Sun’s energy. In addition to the Sun, we have utilized other sources of energy such as oil, coal, and nuclear fission.  However, energy has many different forms and we use different forms of energy for different applications. For example, nuclear energy is mostly used to generate electricity, while oil is used to fuel our cars.

energy sector in middle east

Per capita energy conservation in the Middle East is among the highest worldwide

Having established the absolute necessity of energy to maintain life on Earth, it is equally critical to understand that energy is also capable of extinguishing life on Earth if misused. For example, the use of oil and coal to generate energy, produces different gases, mostly carbon monoxide, that have negative impact on the environment. Such a negative impact has been identified by scientists as global warming.

It has been established that global warming is directly related to the increased level of carbon monoxide in our atmosphere.  As the temperature on Earth continues to rise, the entire climate will start to change because of the higher temperature on the surface of Earth. Moreover, any changes in the climate will have a direct impact on life. For example, many plants, trees and even animals may not be able to survive in hotter climate in a specific region of Earth, yet the impact of such change will be felt all over the world.

The Relationship between Energy and Climate Change

Energy has a direct impact on the climate and as a result has direct impact on all living creatures on Earth. It is the responsibility of all people on Earth to preserve our current climate by using clean sources of energy, such as solar and wind, and moving away from oil and coal. Climate has direct impact not only on the food we eat, but on our ability to survive in certain regions of the planet.

Since most people in developing countries do not completely understand the direct relationship between the energy they use and the climate change as a result, while others in the more developed countries put economical gain ahead of the environment, additional laws with larger penalties may be needed to be enforced around the world.

In addition, all governments must focus on the research and development of clean energy sources and slowly move away from oil and coal as both sources are the ultimate sources of pollution to the environment, which may result in permanent change to the climate on Earth. Meanwhile, and until the clean energy sources are fully developed and utilized around the world, maintaining current trees and planting new ones will help offset the effects caused by the release of carbon monoxide into the air.

The Difference between China and the Middle East

It has been known for some time now that China is one of the largest contributors to air pollution due to its significant economic growth which mostly depends on oil, and its large population; however, the Middle East is also on top of the list of countries and regions that heavily depend on cheap oil prices to power the engine of their economies.

The main difference however, between China and the rich-oil countries in the Middle East is that in recent years, China has signed several international agreements to reduce air pollution by different means. The Chinese people in addition, have come a long way to better understand the global impact due to air pollution.

The oil-rich countries in the Middle East on the other hand, are still behind very much the rest of the world in this area, mainly due to the lack of education on many of the environmental issues, as well as the lack of any alternative energy sources. However, time has come for all these countries to start looking into other alternative energy sources before it is too late

The Pressure on Industrialized Countries

As more people on this planet become aware of the deadly consequences of using oil as a source of energy, the internal and external pressure keeps mounting on the industrialized countries to look for alternative energy sources. In fact, it is only a matter of time before these industrialized countries develop alternative energy sources on mass scale, which may eventually cause the death of the oil industry completely. For example, the use of cold fusion as an energy source would make the price of one barrel of oil less than $1.

Most, if not all the oil-rich countries today believe that there is no need to make the transition to clean energy because the world needs their oil, or at least, they can continue to power their economies using oil instead of clean energy. But the sad truth is that once an alternative clean energy sources have been identified, these oil rich nations would have no choice but to abandon their oil fields and move into the alternatives. One simple fact these nations need to consider is that in the foreseeable future, developed countries would boycott all products and services created and maintained using oil-powered factories instead of clean energy.

Currently, there are many clean energy sources that have been developed, tested, and used around the world. Some of these sources include solar energy, wind energy, water energy, geothermal energy, ocean energy, biomass and of course, nuclear (fission and fusion) energies. The use of any of those alternative energy sources does not release any carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and will maintain the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere at acceptable ratio.

solar power plant in saudi arabia

The Transition to Clean Energy

For the rich-oil countries in the Middle East, the transition from oil-dependent economies to clean energy dependent economies requires three vital ingredients:

Education

People in the Middle East need to first be educated on contemporary environmental issues and why the transition from oil to clean energy source is a necessity at this time. If the average man on the Arab street doesn’t understand the imminent danger of climate change and how it is related to the use of oil, then the transition will be difficult, slow and costly. Educating people is the starting point.

Investment

The transition to clean energy will initially require a huge investment in a new infrastructure especially for clean energy. Such infrastructure may not be cheap to build from the ground up, but the return on investment (ROI) will be quite high at the end.

Time

Phasing out the oil-dependent economies completely takes time. The transition to clean energy will take many years before reaching the goal. However, a well-thought-out plan to make such a transition is possible provided that these countries are serious, willing, and able to make such a move. Starting with one step at a time will lead to the end goal, but someone must take the first step

Bottom Line

As energy consumption is directly related to climate change, energy conservation is also directly related to environmental issues. Though physics laws show the energy is conserved, yet the form of energy we use is not. Therefore, people around the world, especially in the Middle Eastern countries, need to be made aware of the importance of energy conservation. The Middle East countries in general, and GCC countries in particular, must start educating their citizens on energy, climate change, and environmental issues.

Integration of Renewable Energy and Agriculture for Sustainable Water–Food Systems

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The increasing pressure on water, energy, and food systems in arid and semi-arid regions has accelerated the search for integrated solutions capable of addressing these interconnected challenges. In the MENA region, where water scarcity is structural and climate change is intensifying hydrological variability, the convergence of renewable energy and agriculture has emerged as a strategic pathway toward sustainability. In particular, the coupling of renewable energy technologies with brackish water desalination offers a promising approach to support high-value crop production while minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing resource efficiency. This integrated paradigm aligns with the water–energy–food nexus framework, emphasizing synergies, co-benefits, and systemic optimization.

solar-powered irrigation

The Case for Renewables-Powered Desalination

Water scarcity remains the primary constraint on agricultural productivity in MENA, where a significant proportion of groundwater resources is brackish and unsuitable for direct irrigation without treatment. Conventional desalination technologies, while technically mature and effective, are highly energy-intensive and largely dependent on fossil fuels. This dependence translates into relatively moderate capital expenditures (CAPEX) at the installation stage but leads to significantly higher operational expenditures (OPEX) over time due to continuous fuel consumption, exposure to volatile energy markets, and increasing carbon-related costs.

In contrast, renewable energy-powered desalination systems, particularly those based on solar photovoltaics (PV), require higher upfront CAPEX due to investments in solar infrastructure, storage systems, and integration components. However, they benefit from near-zero fuel costs, resulting in substantially lower and more predictable OPEX over their lifetime.

This economic trade-off becomes particularly advantageous in the medium to long term. While fossil fuel-based desalination systems may appear cost-effective initially, their cumulative operational costs often exceed those of renewable-powered systems within a relatively short payback period. In high solar irradiance regions such as MENA, solar-powered desalination systems can achieve competitive or even lower levelized costs of water (LCOW), especially when long-term fuel price escalation and carbon pricing are considered [1,2]. Furthermore, renewable systems enhance energy security and reduce vulnerability to external shocks, making them particularly suitable for decentralized agricultural applications.

Solar-powered desalination systems provide an environmentally sustainable alternative by harnessing abundant local energy resources while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This dual advantage-economic resilience and environmental sustainability positions renewable energy-driven desalination as a strategic solution for ensuring long-term water security in arid environments. Recent reviews highlight that such systems can substantially reduce the carbon footprint of water production while improving the sustainability and reliability of water supply systems [1].

Among desalination technologies, reverse osmosis (RO) and electrodialysis reversal (EDR) are particularly suitable for brackish water applications due to their relatively low energy requirements compared to thermal processes. Studies have demonstrated that photovoltaic-powered RO systems can achieve high efficiency and cost-effectiveness, especially in regions with moderate salinity levels such as North Africa. Comparative analyses indicate that solar-powered RO systems are more economically viable in these contexts, while thermal desalination remains more suitable for high-salinity feed waters typical of Gulf countries [2].

Why Integration of Renewable Energy into Agriculture?

Beyond water production, the integration of renewable energy into agriculture generates multiple co-benefits across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. One of the most innovative approaches is agrivoltaics, which involves the co-location of solar panels and agricultural crops on the same land. This approach enhances land-use efficiency by enabling simultaneous energy and food production while creating favorable microclimatic conditions for crops. Partial shading from solar panels reduces evapotranspiration, conserves soil moisture, and can improve yields for certain high-value crops such as vegetables and fruits. In water-scarce environments, these effects contribute to significant water savings and increased resilience to heat stress.

When agrivoltaics is combined with solar-powered desalination, the resulting systems can produce both energy and irrigation water in a fully integrated manner. Solar panels generate electricity to operate desalination units, which convert brackish groundwater into irrigation-quality water. This closed-loop system enhances the autonomy of agricultural operations, particularly in remote or off-grid areas, and reduces reliance on external inputs. Moreover, the use of brackish water resources alleviates pressure on freshwater reserves, contributing to sustainable water management.

The co-benefits of such integrated systems extend to environmental sustainability through reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved resource efficiency. Solar-powered desalination eliminates the need for fossil fuel-based energy, significantly lowering emissions associated with water production. In addition, the utilization of marginal lands and saline water resources for agriculture reduces land degradation and supports ecosystem restoration. Economically, the reduction in energy costs and the potential for decentralized operation improve the profitability of agricultural activities, particularly for high-value crops that require reliable water supply. Socially, these systems enhance rural livelihoods by creating employment opportunities, improving food security, and increasing resilience to climate shocks.

Examples from the MENA Region

Several successful examples from the MENA region illustrate the practical implementation of renewable energy–agriculture integration. In Egypt, solar-powered desalination systems have been deployed to treat brackish groundwater for irrigation in desert agriculture projects. A recent study demonstrated the technical feasibility and economic viability of solar-powered desalination for agricultural use, highlighting its potential to support sustainable farming in arid environments [3]. These systems have enabled the cultivation of high-value crops in desert areas while reducing dependence on diesel-powered water pumping.

In Algeria, research on photovoltaic-powered reverse osmosis systems has shown promising results for decentralized water supply in agriculture. A detailed feasibility study demonstrated the integration of PV systems with RO desalination to provide sustainable irrigation water, indicating favorable economic returns and reduced energy consumption [4]. This example underscores the relevance of such systems for national strategies aiming at enhancing water security and agricultural productivity.

In Jordan and the broader Levant region, integrated solar desalination projects have been developed to address water scarcity in agriculture. Comprehensive regional assessments emphasize the role of solar desalination technologies in supporting agriculture and water sustainability while highlighting the importance of hybrid system configurations [1].

In Palestine, solar PV-powered seawater reverse osmosis systems have been designed to enhance sustainability in water supply for agriculture. Case studies demonstrate the potential of solar PV systems to power desalination units efficiently, reducing operational costs and improving system reliability in resource-constrained environments [5].

Comparative analyses of different renewable energy–desalination configurations reveal important insights into system optimization. Photovoltaic-powered RO systems are currently the most mature and widely deployed technology due to their high efficiency and scalability. However, challenges such as membrane fouling, brine disposal, and intermittency of solar energy must be addressed. Hybrid systems that combine PV with thermal energy or energy storage solutions offer promising avenues to enhance reliability and performance. Reviews of hybrid solar desalination systems highlight their potential to achieve higher efficiency and operational flexibility under variable climatic conditions [6].

Emerging innovations in solar desalination further expand the potential of integrated renewable energy–agriculture systems. Advances in materials science and system design are improving the performance and cost-effectiveness of desalination technologies. Experimental studies on solar stills and interfacial evaporation technologies demonstrate the potential for low-cost, decentralized water production using renewable energy and locally available materials [7]. These innovations are particularly relevant for smallholder farmers and rural communities.

Despite the significant potential of integrated renewable energy and agriculture systems, several challenges remain. Technical challenges include improving system reliability, reducing maintenance requirements, and managing brine disposal in an environmentally sustainable manner. Economic barriers, such as high initial investment costs and limited access to financing, can hinder adoption. Policy and regulatory frameworks must evolve to support decentralized renewable energy and water systems, while capacity building and knowledge transfer are essential for scaling up these solutions.

Bottom Line

The integration of renewable energy and agriculture through brackish water desalination represents a transformative approach to addressing the water–energy–food nexus in the MENA region. By leveraging abundant solar resources, these systems can provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions for irrigation, enabling the production of high-value crops in water-scarce environments.

The co-benefits extend across environmental, economic, and social dimensions, contributing to climate mitigation, resource efficiency, and rural development. Successful examples from Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, and Palestine demonstrate the feasibility and potential of these approaches, while ongoing research continues to enhance their performance and scalability.

References

[1] Al-Addous, M.; Bdour, M.; Rabaiah, S.; Boubakri, A.; Schweimanns, N.; Barbana, N.; Wellmann, J. Innovations in Solar-Powered Desalination: A Comprehensive Review of Sustainable Solutions for Water Scarcity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. Water 2024, 16(13), 1877.

[2] Al-Obaidi, M.A.; Zubo, R.H.A.; Rashid, F.L.; Dakkama, H.J.; Abd-Alhameed, R.; Mujtaba, I.M. Evaluation of Solar Energy Powered Seawater Desalination Processes: A Review. Energies 2022, 15(18), 6562.

[3] Dawoud, M.A.; Sallam, G.R.; Abdelrahman, M.A.; Emam, M. The Performance and Feasibility of Solar-Powered Desalination for Brackish Groundwater in Egypt. Sustainability 2024, 16, 1630.

[4] Tigrine, Z.; Aburideh, H.; Zioui, D.; Hout, S.; Sahraoui, N.; Benchoubane, Y.; Izem, A.; Tassalit, D.; Yahiaoui, F.Z.; Khateb, M.; Drouiche, N.; Lebouachera, S.E.I. Feasibility Study of a Reverse Osmosis Desalination Unit Powered by Photovoltaic Panels for a Sustainable Water Supply in Algeria. Sustainability 2023, 15, 14189.

[5] Mizyed, A. Solar PV System Design for Enhancing Sustainability in SWRO Desalination: The Deir El-Balah Case Study. New Energy Exploitation and Application 2025, 4(2), 251–262.

[6] Alghassab, M.A. A Review of Hybrid Solar Desalination Systems: Structure and Performance. Water Science and Technology 2024, 89(5), 1357–1381.

[7] Yusop, A.M.; Zakaria, M.H.; Mohd Sofi, M.N.A.; Sulaiman, N.A.; Yunus, S.A.M.J.; Mohamed, R. Eco-Friendly Desalination: Improving Evaporation Rates in a Solar Still Using Agricultural Waste Materials. International Journal of Energy and Water Resources 2025.

Post-Coronavirus World: Human Development Re-defined

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The coronavirus pandemic has rejuvenated human traits and values from various angles. Self-care, life balance, personal development, helping others, and considering the environment are just a few of many values and principles that are boiling down these days.

Let’s take environmental values as an example with the several statements issued lately about the potential impact of COVID-19 on some of the hot green issues of today, Climate Change and Biodiversity. A few questions come to mind – though I don’t claim to know the answers for: is COVID-19 becoming the nature’s savior from air pollution and GHG emissions? Have we – humans – brought in Coronavirus by disrupting the ecosystems? Are there any lessons from the Coronavirus era that can guide human development in its new form?

The Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Inger Andersen, said that humanity is placing too many pressures on the natural world with damaging consequences, and warned that failing to take care of the planet meant not taking care of ourselves. She also highlighted that never before have so many opportunities existed for pathogens to pass from wild and domestic animals to people, noting that 75% of all emerging infectious diseases come from wildlife. Within the same context, climate scientists urged nations to act now and prepare for a risky future of extreme climate change consequences.

Let’s try to imagine the world post COVID-19, regardless of when that is going to be. Economies and financial institutions are already doing the math, and the picture doesn’t look good. The IMF recognized that the coronavirus crisis will plunge the world economy into recession, and the World Bank and IFC’s Boards of Directors approved an increased $14 billion package of fast-track financing to assist companies and countries in their efforts to prevent, detect and respond to the rapid spread of COVID-19.

Countries are taking drastic economic relief measures during the crisis and would be in severe need for more aggressive economic recovery plans after this is all over. People, like us Jordanians – who have been put as a top priority by our leadership and government during the crisis; are keen to return this back through engaging in local economic development projects and enterprises.

A new set of questions arise: how would emerging economies survive another recession? How logical would it be to go back to reports and studies from the pre-Coronavirus era to plan for the future? Would human development, job creation and social security still mean the same as they do now? And, should the world expect another crisis due to the ignorance and/or lack of action by decision-makers?

Climate change and biodegradation might not be the most appealing headlines to many, nowadays. Nevertheless, no one would deny that the past couple of years were not easy on people and governments. Buildings, infrastructure, basic services and people’s health and safety; were not at their best. The direct and indirect impact of climate change on economies and communities is becoming more visible, while action is not as visible despite the relatively increased attention in some regions.

In Jordan, for example, we lost lives, and many are suffering the consequences of floods and droughts. Such impacts are magnified by the increased population (hosted refugees), unemployment and the challenging water and energy supplies. We have taken serious steps to strengthen clean energy penetration but with huge dependence on across-borders collaboration.

One more set of questions comes up: would the global transition towards clean energy be hindered by Coronavirus crisis? Would the Paris Agreement targets need to be adjusted to reflect further delay in action? Could climate financing and green economy form a feasible solution to recover the suffering economies and create more humane economic development plans?

Three possible takeaways from Coronavirus experience – the first is that yes, the world smells, looks, and feels more clean, which means a few measures can make a difference when it comes to the environment; the second takeaway is that it might be too late to intervene once the impact has arrived; and last but not least, one should realize that challenges will continue to become more complex and interrelated so, we cannot stop acting on a problem just because another one has just emerged. Delaying action on any human development challenge is a recipe for crisis.

Unconventional challenges should inspire unconventional solutions. Scientists from all disciplines are called upon today as the most knowledgeable and credible to not only analyze and solve today’s problems; but more importantly to anticipate the future with all its complexity, and to guide our human development plans towards a more livable planet.

World Water Day 2026: Celebrate Water and its Richness for Humanity

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World Water Day is celebrated and recognised on the 22rd March each year. This year is no different. The United Nations chose to connect and celebrate World Water Day 2026 in the context of equality, namely gender equality with a focus on women.

Let us manage water with equality. We appreciate that where there is water, plants grow, communities can grow, animals and humans can survive and prosper. But the question is whether there is equality where there is water. A great thought to ponder from many different perspectives.

world water day

A simple yet critical question is multifaceted. Is there water? Is the water clean? Is the water safe to drink? Is there enough water? Who has access to the water? Do animals walk through, even urinate in it? Is the water close to the village, their dwelling, the agricultural fields, to industry, to urban expansion. And the questions never cease.

Water is an essential, a critical element all across the globe. But there is not necessarily equality in the distribution or use of the water. And this leads to gender inequality as well.  If there is water at a distance, if water is unclean, if there is poor sanitation in the village or rural area, and even in poorer urban dwellings, there can be inequality. Where these inequalities exist and even flourish, the burden often falls on the women and girls. They carry the burden associated with access to the water resource.

You might wonder what is it that is referred to as water inequality. Women collect water. Women may walk many kilometers to fetch water. Women carry the water often using their head muscles. So women manage the water situation.

The water may be unclean and so is unsafe to drink or even cook with. The women care for the sick members in their family, and within their community. They care for people made sick by unsafe water. While carrying out these extra tasks of caring for the sick, they use their precious energy and time. They are also exposed to the same illnesses. They are prevented of opportunities to work in other capacities.

As well as these domestic challenges, the women are not part of the decision making process regarding where to retrieve water  from, how to retrieve the water. Age-old practices determine the process in many cases. If there are funding agencies or projects aiding and assisting with retrieving water, women are not included in the negotiations. The women do not hold any leadership or position of authority in many instances. Without engaging women and their input and experiences with water, any water issues and concerns, also become women’s issues and concerns. But with no voice.

There is a desperate need to engage the water bearers. Let them have a voice in water management projects. This often means a change in societal processes and procedures. But the voice of women needs to be heard. Since they are the dominate water fetcher, they need to be involved in the processes of planning and designing water facilities. And this is necessary at all levels from village demands, farming practices, crop irrigation, personal hygiene demands into higher level situations with hydro-engineers and irrigation management, etc.

water management and circular economy

As life continues to become more complex even threatening due to changes in climate, increasing natural disasters, there is need, even urgent need for persons to have a greater engagement and responsibility for the use, protection and preservation of natural resources, and especially water resources. There is an even greater demand for resilience and beast practice at all levels of society. This needs to involve all members of the community regardless of their age or gender.

The concept of sustainability and survival is better achieved by ensuring gender equalities in all matters that concern human survival in what is becoming an even harsher environment than ever before. There is need to focus on all creatures to ensure the benefit of all are met through the benefits for all, anywhere on the planet.

Three points worth keeping in mind is that the global water crisis affects everyone, but not equally. Women can be effectively engaged in shaping and managing water and its associated services. And by working fairly and effectively, it is feasible for equality to grow and flourish as water flows to all corners of the globe meeting the needs of all.

Mangroves in Qatar: Perspectives

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Mangroves are trees and shrubs that have adapted to life in a saltwater environment, usually found in the intertidal zone of a coastal or estuarine area. The halophyte characteristics of a mangrove tree allows it to grow in saline environments where no other tree can, thereby making significant contributions to the local ecosystem. Yet these reservoirs of “blue carbon” are seriously threatened. Across the globe, coastal ecosystems are currently being lost at a rate of about 2% a year – a staggering number when the carbon storage potential is considered.

mangroves-qatar-wakra

In a harsh desert environment such as Qatar, mangroves are one of the few ecosystems able to sustain life during the hot summer months. In recent years, Qatar government has been more focused on protecting these areas than the past, however 70% of the country’s mangroves have already been lost.

Introduction to Mangroves

Being at the beginning of the marine food chain, mangroves are therefore instrumental to a thriving marine habitat. The mangroves extensive root system provides an area of natural protection for fish and other marine nurseries and play an important role in protecting the coastline from the erosive effects of waves and storms. By filtering sediments, the forests also protect coral reefs and seagrass from being flooded by sediment.

Mangroves can store 5 times more carbon per square metre than tropical or boreal forests and when these areas are destroyed, the carbon is released back into the atmosphere where it contributes to global climate change.

Mangroves in Qatar

Qatar is home to the Avicennia marina species; it is known as the grey or white mangrove trees, with the largest eight forests located in the east coast of the country. The oldest and largest mangroves can be found at Al Thakira and Al Khor. Although the government have starting a replanting project around the country, the mangrove lake at Al Wakra was recently uprooted for development. In a country where the harsh desert conditions limit the vegetation growth, mangroves in Qatar provide a haven for birds, fish and mammals.

Recent studies have shown that Avicennia Marina populations have the ability to adapt to the varying weather along the Qatar coastline through the evolution of genetic variations in the different mangrove forests.

Carbon Sequestration

The coastal ecosystems of mangroves mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it within the biomass of the plant and roots, and in the soils below. This ability to predominantly store carbon in the soils of coastal ecosystems, ensures the carbon is stored for a very long time, up to millennia.

It is estimated that mangroves sequester up to 25.5 million tonnes of carbon per year and provide 10% of the essential dissolved carbon supplied into the world’s oceans.

Mangrove Depletion

Despite increasing awareness regarding the benefits and carbon storing potential of mangroves, their destruction continues globally due to both economic and political motives. Even in countries like Qatar, where mangroves forests are protected by law, a lack of enforcement coupled with an incentive to reclaim land can result in forest destruction. Another cause of mangrove destruction is pollution by solid waste such as plastics and glass.

When these mangrove forests are degraded, lost or converted to other land uses, the stored carbon in the soils are exposed and released into the atmosphere or ocean as CO2. On a global scale, this is currently resulting as 0.15 – 1.02 billion tons of CO2 released annually. The combined global area of mangroves, tidal marshes and seagrass meadows equates to only 2-6% of the total forest area. However, degradation of these systems can account for 3-19% of the global carbon emissions from deforestation.

UAE mangrove conservation

Conservation of Mangroves

Legislation needs to be enacted on a global scale to protect mangroves from direct human damage. Such legislation must be enforced by local government to ensure mangroves are not removed, and the use of herbicides or other chemicals near mangrove forests are banned. Local communities need to be educated to understand the importance of these costal ecosystems, and the effects of their degradation.

The rapid development in Qatar has been encroaching on the mangrove populations along the coastline. Qatar is gradually increasing the level of protection of the country’s mangroves, with 40% of the country’s coastline now protected. Organisations such as Conservation International have begun mapping out the mangroves locations and data in Qatar and around the globe in order to assess the population distribution and threatened areas. With further enforcement and data tools, the mangrove forests of Qatar can be restored, and continue to provide immense benefits to this harsh desert environment.