The UNESCO Chair at the Center for Advanced Materials (CAM) at Qatar University (QU) recently hosted a panel discussion session on “Water Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture in Qatar” at the Expo Doha 2023 Exhibition Center. The event brought together leading experts, researchers, and stakeholders to address pressing challenges related to water scarcity and agricultural sustainability in Qatar. The session aimed to address the critical challenges of water scarcity and sustainability in agriculture in Qatar.

Professor Syed Javaid Zaidi, UNESCO Chair in Water Technology, chaired and moderated the seminar, ensuring a comprehensive discussion among esteemed panelists and attendees. The distinguished speakers include Mr. Mubarak Al-Nasr, CEO of Ras Abu Fontas Desalination Plant, Qatar Electricity and Water Company (Kahramaa), Dr. Jenny Lawler, Senior Research Director, Qatar Energy and Environmental Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), and Professor Sami Al-Sayadi, Director of the Sustainable Development Center, QU.

Mr. Mubarak Al-Nasr, CEO of Ras Abu Fontas Desalination Plant and Kahramaa, provided an in-depth overview of Ras Abu Fontas's extensive experience in water desalination and treatment. He emphasized the company's pivotal role in ensuring uninterrupted water supply during major international events, such as the FIFA World Cup and Asian Cup, highlighting their commitment to water quality and environmental sustainability. Mr. Al-Nasr elaborated on the company's expansion projects, water provision for agriculture, and the implementation of thermal power generation to reduce electricity consumption.

The seminar showcased groundbreaking initiatives and technologies aimed at addressing water scarcity, soil salinity, and climate change impacts on agriculture. Discussions revolved around water desalination, groundwater treatment, smart agriculture technologies, and soil management practices tailored to Qatar's unique environmental challenges. Emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, Prof. Mariam Al-Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, highlighted successful partnerships between academia, industry, and government entities. These collaborations are crucial for fostering innovation, implementing scalable solutions, and ensuring long-term sustainability in Qatar's agricultural sector, noted Prof. Mariam.

Dr. Mohammad Irshidat, Director of CAM at QU, highlighted the importance of aligning research with Qatar's sustainability objectives. “Our research initiatives are key to fostering sustainable water solutions for agriculture that support the Qatar National Vision 2030,” Dr. Irshidat commented.

The seminar served as a platform for fruitful discussions, knowledge exchange, and networking opportunities among experts, researchers, and stakeholders. Participants exchanged insights, best practices, and lessons learned, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for addressing complex water and agricultural challenges.

The “Water Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture in Qatar” seminar underscored the urgency of addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Qatar. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange, stakeholders are poised to unlock new opportunities and pave the way for a resilient and sustainable agricultural future in Qatar.

In conclusion, Prof. Syed Zaidi expressed gratitude to the organizers, panelists, and attendees for their invaluable contributions to the seminar. The discussions highlighted the complexity of water-related challenges in agriculture and underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in finding innovative solutions. The seminar served as a platform for knowledge exchange and strategic dialogue, laying the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture in Qatar.