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Abstract
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Virtual
water refers to the hidden water used in the production of goods and
services, while green water is the water stored in soil and vegetation. Arid
regions, characterized by low precipitation and high evaporation rates, are
particularly susceptible to the effects of climate change, leading to
increased water scarcity and potential conflicts over resources. As global
temperatures rise and precipitation patterns shift, the availability of water
in arid regions will be further compromised, posing significant challenges
for both human populations and ecosystems. For example, in the Middle East,
agriculture accounts for a large portion of water use, with countries like
Saudi Arabia relying heavily on virtual water imports to meet their food
demands. As water scarcity worsens in the region due to climate change,
competition for limited water resources may escalate tensions between
neighboring countries. This could lead to conflicts over access to water
sources such as rivers or aquifers, as seen in the case of the Tigris and
Euphrates rivers shared by Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. Additionally, disputes
over water rights could exacerbate existing political tensions in the region,
potentially leading to further instability and conflict. A counterexample to
this scenario could be the successful management of shared water resources in
regions like the Nile River basin, where countries have established
cooperative agreements to ensure equitable distribution of water. This
demonstrates that effective governance and diplomatic efforts can mitigate
tensions over water scarcity and prevent conflicts from arising. However, in
the case of the Jordan River, despite being shared by Israel, Jordan,
Palestine, and Syria, ongoing political conflicts have hindered efforts to
establish cooperative agreements for water management. This highlights that
even with successful examples in other regions, political tensions and lack
of cooperation can still lead to conflicts over shared water resources.
One potential solution to address water scarcity in arid regions is through
the implementation of water conservation and management strategies. This may
include the use of drip irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, and the
recycling of wastewater for agricultural and industrial purposes.
Additionally, promoting sustainable land use practices, such as reforestation
and soil conservation, can help to improve water retention in the soil and
reduce erosion. Collaboration between governments, communities, and
stakeholders is essential to developing and implementing effective water
management plans that prioritise the needs of both people and the
environment. By taking proactive measures to safeguard water resources, arid
regions can better adapt to the challenges of climate change and ensure a
more secure water future for all. Implementing efficient water recycling
systems and investing in desalination technology can also help mitigate water
scarcity in arid regions. Education and awareness campaigns can further encourage
water conservation practices among the population. By working together
towards sustainable water management, arid regions can thrive even in the
face of changing environmental conditions.
This special issue will provide a common platform for all the
professors,researchers, scientists, and students on this topic to submit
their research work, from identification to intervention and collaboration in addressing the water
management challenges faced by arid regions. The works must be original and
novel , with the aim of advancing knowledge in the field and ultimately
improving water management practices in arid regions.
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