Special Features
The Economist praises Sharjah’s efforts in water conservation
The Economist, a weekly international news and business publication, has confirmed that Sharjah s per capita consumption of water is consistent with the recommendations of the United Nations, pointing to the emirate’s numerous efforts in water conservation. A report by Sharjah Media Centre mentioned that the magazine in its recent issue titled "The World in 2014", commended on the fact that daily water consumption in Sharjah is estimated at around 200 liters per person, which is the average recommended by the UN.The publication praised the efforts made by Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) to rationalise Sharjah s water usage, which is the least in the U.A.E.
It listed water sources in the U.A.E. in general and the main challenges facing these sources in the near future.
Dr. Rashid Al Leem, Chairman of SEWA, said: "Under the directives of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to make Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority one of the world bodies known for preserving wealth, particularly the wealth of water, Tarsheed Initiative was introduced with the aim of raising awareness of the need to conserve natural resources, especially water, which is the lifeblood of every city and a feature of cultural progress." SEWA Chairman emphasised that the rational consumption of water in Sharjah stems from Tarsheed s awareness campaigns and general objectives.
SEWA s Tarsheed, according to Dr. Al Leem, has recently visited a number of housewives in Sharjah s suburbs to make them aware of the importance of water conservation. It has also sent awareness messages in the form of posters and text messages, as well as TV and radio ads.
SEWA Chairman noted that "Sharjah s rationalisation of water consumption has exceeded the geographical boundaries of the UAE, urging one of the world s most prestigious magazines to praise the emirate in this regard." The Economist pointed to SEWA s free distribution and installation of water-saving devices, which reduce consumption of water by up to 40%.