Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
jaber 6
2
Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University.
3
geology department, faculty of science, Cairo university-Egypt
4
Environmental Health Department, College of Health Science, PAAET, Kuwait
5
Geology department, faculty of science, Cairo university
Abstract
Water resource sustainability poses challenges in arid regions due to limited freshwater availability, climate variability, and growing demand. Kuwait, as a predominantly arid country, faces acute water management challenges driven by heavy reliance on desalination, rapid urbanization, and groundwater depletion. The Mutla’a-Jahra coastal area is particularly vulnerable to these pressures, emphasizing the need for comprehensive water resource assessments. Despite previous research on groundwater and desalination, there is a gap in integrating hydrological, environmental, and sustainability-focused analyses to address these challenges holistically.
This study aims to bridge this gap by evaluating key challenges affecting water resource sustainability in the Mutla’a-Jahra coastal area. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the research investigates the impacts of climate change, groundwater depletion, and desalination dependency. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) framework, and the water evaluation and planning (WEAP) model were employed to assess water supply and demand dynamics.
Findings reveal that desalination operations, primarily at the Doha East and West plants, were found to be energy-intensive, with multistage flash (MSF) systems emitting twice the carbon footprint of reverse osmosis (RO) systems while consuming more energy and chemical resources. However, treated wastewater from the Sulaibiya and Kabd plants meets regulatory standards, making it a viable alternative for agricultural irrigation and reducing dependency on desalinated water.
To address these challenges, the study proposes integrating renewable energy, adopting energy-efficient technologies, and implementing sustainable water practices. These strategies align with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, providing actionable pathways to ensure water sustainability in arid regions.
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