Centre for water control to be opened

Dubai: Per capita water consumption in the UAE stands at 550 litres per day — one of the highest in the world.

TechnoPark, the fully-owned subsidiary of Economic Zones World, is establishing a Centre of Excellence for Integrated Water Management, a statement said.

Details of this Centre of Excellence will be revealed by Salma Hareb, CEO of Economic Zones World, at the opening ceremony of the International Desalination Association World Congress 2009, taking place in Dubai from tomorrow to Thursday.

Hamad Al Hashemi, managing director of Dubai Institute of Technology (DIT) — TechnoPark, stated that DIT is examining how to manage water resources in the most sustainable manner for the future.

Undertaking tasks

He added: "Despite the scarcity of natural water resources, residents of the UAE are among the highest per capita water users in the world, consuming an average of 550 litres per day. The UAE relies on renewable and nonrenewable groundwater and desalinated water for supply. DIT will undertake research and development on both these fronts. We are looking into governance of resources in the framework of economic, social and cultural contexts."

The event will address global water management and desalination issues including new modern technologies that reduce energy requirements, enhance sustainability and address environmental responsibility.