An Introduction

In the previous article, we agreed on some points regarding the causes of water scarcity. We recognized the magnitude of the crisis and that we have entered a phase of climate crisis, not just climate change or global warming. Therefore, individual responsibility rests on each of us, not just governments, regionally, or even globally. In this article, we will examine the measures being taken by some developed countries to prepare for the very near future. We will specifically look at Egypt and whether it has taken steps to prepare for a brighter tomorrow, or one of global warming like many developing countries. There is no action at the required level, no individual awareness of the importance of the issue, and Arab youth are not engaging in confronting global warming as their Western counterparts are. So, let's begin...

The Global Water Gap

A 40% shortfall in supply compared to demand is projected by 2030 if current practices continue.

The Scale of Need

Achieving universal access to clean water requires increasing current efforts sixfold.

1- The United States of America

(Water Purification - Massive Infrastructure Tunnels)

The countywide Stormwater Diversion Tunnels

The largest stormwater management resilience project in the United States, this massive tunnel system will significantly expand stormwater drainage capacity, protecting urban areas from flooding and ensuring long-term water sustainability. The project is still in the pre-planning stage, meaning its benefits will not materialize for years, and it is also subject to political and financial risks.

California Water Transfer System

The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Water Transfer Project is designed to modernize California's water distribution system and will more efficiently transfer water from the Sacramento River to millions of residents and farms. The project faces environmental and legal challenges due to the potential for ecosystem disruption.

Sites Reservoir Project

Expanding water storage outside the Sacramento River in California, this reservoir will store excess Sacramento River flows, providing drought resilience and flexible water management. The project is still in the planning stages, with hurdles related to environmental assessments and funding.

New York City Water Tunnel No. 3

Securing New York City's Drinking Water Supply

This tunnel ensures a reliable and secure water supply for New York City, serving millions of residents.

Ball Run Water Treatment Project

Portland's largest drinking water treatment facility, this facility will provide between 135 and 220 million gallons per day of treated water, removing the Cryptosporidium parasite and promoting public health.

2. China

The Sponge City

China’s “Sponge City” initiative aims to address the twin threats of flooding and severe water scarcity. By 2026, the goal is for 80% of China’s urban areas to be able to absorb and reuse at least 70% of rainwater. This initiative incorporates permeable pavements, rain gardens, green roofs, and urban wetlands to manage rainwater naturally, rather than relying solely on concrete drainage systems. This program is of paramount importance given the devastating losses China has suffered from flooding and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change. The central government has allocated over 100 billion yuan to build the “Sponge City,” creating the world’s largest experiment in nature-based urban water management.

3- The United Kingdom and Northern Ireland

The UK has launched its first-ever Climate Security Taskforce, bringing together leading security experts, military personnel, and academics with the government to enhance the UK's preparedness for the security impacts of climate change.

The Preventive Measures:

87% Emission Reduction Between 2038 and 2042

This will help lower energy bills, protect households from rising fossil fuel prices, and drive investment in the UK's clean energy economy.

The Drainage Plans for Belfast and Derry/Londonderry

To reduce the risk of urban flooding.

The Strengthening Coastal Defenses and River Management to protect communities from rising sea levels and storm surges.

The Upgrading Emergency Response Systems to Deal with Extreme Weather Events

The Storm Ewen and Storm Amy

The Sustainable Agriculture Programme

To reduce emissions from agriculture while ensuring food security.

The Food Strategy Framework

For a long-term, equitable, and secure food supply. Measures to combat climate-sensitive animal diseases that threaten food security

Peatland strategy to restore carbon-rich peatlands, which act as natural carbon sinks and flood barriers

Expanding forest fire prevention programs as the risk of fires increases during the hot summer months

Strengthening transport networks (Translink) and water systems (Water of Northern Ireland) against climate variability

3- Russia

Russia has implemented several preventative measures to combat global warming, including:

The use of energy-efficient vehicles and low-carbon infrastructure.

The goal is to reduce transport sector emissions by 1.2 times compared to 2017 levels through the use of energy-efficient vehicles and low-carbon infrastructure.

The national "Environment" project

This project focuses on improving water supply and sanitation, combating pollution, and addressing urban pollution in major cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg.

The Carbon Neutrality Initiative

This initiative aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 in the Sakhalin region, making it the first region in Russia to achieve this goal.

The Investment in green technologies

This initiative recognizes the potential economic benefits of transitioning to a more sustainable energy model, including the development of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.

The climate research and innovation initiatives

These initiatives engage the scientific community in studying the effects of climate change on Russian ecosystems and exploring technological solutions such as carbon capture and storage.

Türkiye

Turkey has taken serious steps to combat global warming through its Climate Law, which includes a comprehensive emissions trading system and a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2053. The law also enshrines Turkey’s net-zero emissions targets and its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), in line with the Paris Agreement.

However, there are concerns about the government’s plans to increase fossil gas production and consolidate its current position as Europe’s largest producer of coal-fired electricity, which could jeopardize its commitment to net-zero emissions.

The phase-out of coal and the cessation of investment in fossil fuels are crucial steps for Turkey to demonstrate genuine ambition and leadership on climate action on the international stage.

5. Denmark

The Sponge City

The climate change is leading to increased rainfall and rising sea levels in low-lying Denmark. In response to these alarming projections, Copenhagen is implementing an ambitious plan to construct hundreds of engineering and natural projects to absorb, store, and redistribute floodwater. The Danish city of Copenhagen has developed a new concept known as the "Sponge City" to combat global warming. This innovative approach relies on creating a network of underground structures and natural features to manage and redistribute water, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and rising sea levels. The Sponge City utilizes both nature-inspired and engineering solutions to absorb and store excess water, which can then be gradually released back into the water cycle, effectively mitigating the effects of climate change.

6 - Egypt

First, we read the words of the Egyptian Minister of Irrigation, Dr. Hani Sweilem:

(The problem of water scarcity in Egypt stems from the growing population, which currently stands at approximately 115 million. In the 1960s, when the Aswan Dam was built, Egypt's population was around 27 million. Despite this increase, we have been living with the same amount of water ever since. He added that we rely on the Nile River for 79% of our water needs, noting that climate change is affecting the Nile Basin, including Egypt, in addition to the rising sea level and its impact on groundwater.)

The most important projects through which Egypt is combating water scarcity include:

The rehabilitation projects for canals and rainwater drains

A number of projects implemented in the desert to redevelop wastewater for agriculture

The Projects in the Western Desert

Projects in Sinai that rely on treated wastewater

The development of new irrigation systems for farmers in several regions

Here are some details,

1- The New Assiut Barrages

More than 100 years after the construction of the old barrages, the President initiated the New Assiut Barrages and Hydroelectric Power Station project. Considered one of the largest national projects implemented by the state, it is essentially a new High Dam on the Nile. The President inaugurated it in August 2018.

A 70-ton capacity, four-lane bridge was constructed, connecting the east and west banks of the Nile

In addition, two first-class navigation locks were built to serve river navigation in the middle of the Nile, at a depth of 48 meters below ground level. These locks allow the passage of giant ships, improve navigation, and facilitate traffic between the east and west banks of the Nile. These barrages replaced the old Assiut Barrages, which were built in 1898. The project was implemented to improve irrigation in the Middle Egypt region, located downstream from the mouth of the Ibrahimia Canal, covering an area of ​​1.6 million feddans. This area provides irrigation water to five governorates: Assiut, Minya, Beni Suef, Fayoum, and Giza. The project also improves river navigation. By constructing two first-class navigation locks, in addition to generating clean electricity

2- The New Deirout Barrages

The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation implemented the New Deirout Barrages project to serve approximately 1.6 million feddans (18% of Egypt's agricultural land) distributed across five governorates (Assiut, Minya, Beni Suef, Fayoum, and Giza). The annual flow through the Deirout Barrages is approximately 9.6 billion cubic meters, representing 17.3% of Egypt's total share of Nile water. The dams feed seven branch canals.

The New Deirout Barrages project aims to

Complete the automated control system through a water flow monitoring and control room, in addition to completing the replacement and rehabilitation of all water infrastructure within the major development projects in Upper Egypt.

3- The Agricultural Drainage Reuse Projects

The field of agricultural drainage reuse aims to implement agricultural expansion projects to achieve food security and combat desertification, such as the Bahr El Baqar, El Hammam, and El Mahsama projects. These projects aim to reclaim new areas of agricultural land using treated agricultural drainage water, serving as an example of sound water management in Egypt and multiple water recycling processes. These projects also represent a model for comprehensive development projects that provide thousands of job opportunities for engineers, technicians, and workers.

4- El Hammam Station

The El Hammam station is one of the most important stations currently under construction in the Dabaa axis on the North Coast. It is one of the largest water treatment plants in the region, with a capacity of 7.5 million cubic meters per day. The treated water is transferred to the New Delta lands as part of the national project to cultivate 1.5 million feddans within the New Delta project and Egypt's future, by promoting the optimal use of the country's water resources.

5- The Canal Rehabilitation

Many canals have suffered from numerous problems in recent years, such as silting up of the waterway and encroachment by some citizens through the dumping of waste into them. This negatively impacts the waterway's ability to deliver water to its destinations, adversely affects water quality in the canals and consequently the crops irrigated with this water, and negatively impacts human and animal health. This prompted the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation to take decisive measures to rectify these conditions by implementing the National Canal Rehabilitation Project, which aims to rehabilitate approximately 20,000 kilometers of canals by mid-2024.

6- A Modern Irrigation

Projects to transition to modern irrigation aim to increase crop productivity, improve the quality of produced crops, and enhance export potential, thereby improving the economic situation of farmers. These projects also aim to increase field irrigation efficiency and the return on investment per unit of water and land, in addition to utilizing solar energy in many irrigation projects.

7 - Coastal Protection

Implementation of Egyptian coastal protection projects with lengths of up to 144 kilometers, and coastal protection works through the use of environmentally friendly materials with lengths of 69 kilometers, and sound management procedures for groundwater. The protection works aim to secure individuals and facilities in coastal areas, work to stop the retreat of the shoreline in areas suffering from severe erosion factors, restore beaches lost due to erosion, protect some villages and low-lying areas from the risks of flooding with seawater, and protect fish stocks.

The Proposed Projects for the Near Future

To establish new water networks and connect them to other countries, or to initiate new projects aimed at obtaining water from other countries, such as:

The Connecting the Nile River to the Congo River

And cooperating with Ethiopia, completing the Jonglei Canal project, the Bahr el Ghazal project, the Mushar Sudd project, and the project to connect Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea. This latter project will be implemented partly in northern Bahr el Ghazal and partly in southern Bahr el Ghazal. The land of the northern Bahr el Ghazal basin forms a vast swamp where water flows slowly, resulting in significant evaporation loss. Bahr el Ghazal covers an area of ​​approximately 521 square kilometers. The project in this region is based on digging a canal to collect this water in the northern part of Bahr el Ghazal and connect it to the White Nile. In southern Bahr el Ghazal, this project also aims to dig a canal to collect river water in the southern part of Bahr el Ghazal and then direct it eastward to Bahr el Jebel near the village of Shambi. The amount of water discharged at the northern and southern points is estimated at about 12 billion cubic meters annually.

The Moshar Swamps Project

This area is known as the Moshar Swamps or simply the Moshar Swamps. It is located in Unity State, South Sudan, near the border with Ethiopia. These swamps form part of a complex ecosystem encompassing numerous rivers and waterways, and the Sobat River basin is a major tributary of the Nile. The swamps cover a vast area and play a vital role in the region's biodiversity, as well as being an important source of water and agriculture for local communities.

This project aims to manage and develop the swamps and the Sobat River basin in South Sudan. The project focuses on capturing lost water in this area, where the Sobat River loses approximately 4 billion cubic meters of water annually. This will be achieved by developing systems to collect and store evaporated or seeped water. The project seeks to improve water resource management, which is a vital step in addressing the challenges of food security and climate change. Furthermore, the development of canals and water collection and distribution facilities will boost agricultural production, particularly sustainable agriculture, and help local communities achieve self-sufficiency and improve their livelihoods. This project is expected to increase agricultural productivity and raise living standards, thereby enhancing food security and creating new job opportunities for the region's inhabitants.

7. Israel

Many programs focus on promoting:

Renewable energy production

Improving water conservation technologies

Raising energy efficiency across various sectors

These initiatives aim not only to achieve international climate goals but also to promote economic growth and environmental well-being.

The government plays a crucial role in providing incentives for clean energy investments, continuing to develop infrastructure to support environmental goals, and ensuring that relevant laws and regulations promote a sustainable economy. Collaborative efforts among all stakeholders—including government agencies, businesses, and citizens—are essential for effectively advancing climate change mitigation initiatives. Efficient resource management and the adoption of innovative technologies will be key to success in this area.

Israel Embraces Beekeeping Projects to Combat Climate Change

Israel is actively embracing beekeeping projects to combat climate change and protect its bees. The country has taken significant steps to support beekeeping, including planting 32,000 bee-friendly trees to combat drought and increase nectar sources, which is crucial for honeybees and the agricultural economy. In addition, the Israeli startup Beewise Technologies has developed an autonomous beehive that uses artificial intelligence and robotics to monitor and care for bee colonies, significantly reducing bee mortality and increasing honey production. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to protect bees and their ecosystem, which is vital for maintaining the balance of the natural environment and supporting food supplies.

The wetlands and canals are of immense environmental and cultural importance, and when they are officially recognized—whether by UNESCO, the Ramsar Convention, or national heritage lists—their value is amplified in several ways:

The Environmental Importance

The wetlands provide habitats for countless species of birds, fish, amphibians, and plants. Recognized sites often become protected areas, reducing the risks of urban sprawl or pollution.

The Water Management

Watercourses and wetlands act as natural barriers, storing floodwater, replenishing groundwater, and filtering pollutants. Recognition ensures the preservation of these services.

The Resilience to Climate Change

Wetlands absorb carbon and mitigate the effects of climate change. Formal recognition often leads to funding for conservation efforts, which reinforces these roles.

The Cultural and Historical Value

Many watercourses are linked to ancient civilizations—such as the irrigation canals of Egypt connected to the Nile River—that shaped patterns of agriculture and settlement. Recognition preserves this heritage.

The Community Identity

Wetlands and watercourses often hold cultural significance, ranging from fishing traditions to religious symbolism. Protecting them preserves local heritage.

The Tourism and Education

Recognized wetlands attract ecotourism and research, generating income and raising awareness. Sustainable Livelihoods

The communities benefit from regulated fishing, agriculture, and water use, balancing environmental conservation with human needs.

The Global Cooperation

International recognition (such as Ramsar sites) promotes cross-border cooperation to protect migratory species and shared water systems.

The Importance of Recognition

Without recognition, wetlands and canals become vulnerable to neglect, drainage, or pollution. Recognition provides legal protection against destructive development, unlocks funding and expertise for restoration projects, and raises public awareness, transforming local ecosystems into global priorities.

In Egypt, for example, the canals connected to the Nile River and wetlands like Lake Burullus are not only environmental treasures but also part of the country's historical narrative. Recognition ensures their survival as both living ecosystems and cultural landmarks.

In conclusion,

As we began the article, we end it: Wetlands such as canals and water bodies were not created by God Almighty at the beginning of creation as a kind of luxury. Planet Earth is 70% water and the rest is land, and God Almighty does not create anything in vain. This is how creation began, so let us return to what we began with. Why? Because different premises lead to different results, our premises—at least 100 years of environmental degradation in all Arab societies—have brought us nothing but harm. Let's return to the state in which creation began, when life was fertile and flourishing on planet Earth. Let's try what has passed, for in most cases—even if the positive results are few—they are largely similar. Let's restore life to its natural state. Your attention, your legal protections, and your strict laws against those who encroach upon water bodies through pollution, neglect, or other means should be properly directed. Enough of the garbage and rodents that are now scattered around the water bodies that have been reopened and repaired for the benefit of the people. Instead of improving the conditions around these areas, diseases are spreading.

For your information

Around water bodies, especially swamps, there is something called phytoplankton. These are directly related to the production of 70% of the Earth's oxygen. Do you understand what this means? This means that these salt marshes or bodies of water produce pure oxygen around them, and you are converting them overnight into methane gas, which is more harmful to the environment than fossil fuels...

A final word

Dear youth of Egypt, where are you in preserving the environment in all its forms? Where is your voluntary environmental contribution that the world around us is witnessing? Dear reader, may you remain well, aware, and understanding of what is happening around us and what is in all our best interests...