A rising number of Emiratis are concerned about water scarcity and what it could mean for future generations
In the United Arab Emirate the average citizen consumes 550 litres of water per capita daily, which is three times the global average and quite high for a country located in the water-scarce Middle East. Despite this water luxury, many Emiratis are increasingly aware of the scale of the problem and in a recent survey carried out by Procter & Gamble and YouGov Siraj, worries over water shortages in the region are higher than they have ever been.
The survey found that 28% of Emiratis worry that limited natural resources will be a real issue for future generations and 25% of married couples with children in the UAE are concerned that there will be not enough fresh water for their children.
An encouraging 57% of Dubai residents reported that they take an active role in monitoring their water consumption and use only what is necessary. This illustrates a rising awareness among Emiratis and follows the recent announcement that 300 mosques in Dubai have been targeted to reduce their water and electricity consumption.
The ‘Green Mosques’ project, which is being championed by the ‘Green Sheikh’, aims to reduce consumption by 20% and save around 6 million Dh.
More worryingly, however, the survey found 24% of residents across Abu Dhabi and Dubai don’t believe their personal actions can make any difference to water consumption. This is a real issue when looking at water conservation as tackling personal behaviours is an important aspect of the saving water.
Jamie Wasky, Associate Director of YouGov Siraj, added: “Sustainability is a key issue in the region and this research shows there is an improvement in awareness but that there is still a long way to go in changing people’s perceptions on water and energy conservation.
“The survey indicated many people still do not believe their actions can make a difference. We look forward to repeating the survey next year and tracking the change in people’s attitudes.”
:: Image via Middle East Children’s Alliance.
For more on water in the UAE see:
Project to Reduce Water and Electricity Consumption in 300 Mosques in Dubai
Abu Dhabi’s Climate Change Choice: Trees or Water?
The Water Behind Middle Eastern Woes
Author: Arwa Aburawa
Arwa is a Muslim freelance writer who is interested in everything climate change related and how Islam can inspire more people to care for their planet and take active steps to save it while we can. She is endlessly suspicious of all politicians and their ceaseless meetings, especially as they make normal people believe that they are not part of the solution when they are the ONLY solution. Her Indian auntie is her model eco-warrier, and when Arwa is not busy helping out in the neighborhood alleyway garden, swap shopping or attempting fusion vegetarian dishes- with mixed success, she’d like to add- she can be found sipping on foraged nettle tea.
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