Saudi Conference Honors Scientists for Water Innovation

Water is a vital resource for life, and as the global population continues to grow, the demand for clean and sustainable water sources becomes increasingly urgent. In response to this challenge, scientists and researchers are tirelessly working on innovative solutions to improve water quality and availability. Recently, a significant event took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where experts gathered to share their groundbreaking work in desalination and wastewater treatment technologies.

On Monday, during the third edition of the Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference, scientists were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the field. This year’s conference attracted 480 participants, including experts, researchers, and representatives from 40 leading organizations across 20 countries. The event served as a platform for discussing the latest advancements in water sustainability.

The highlight of the conference was the awarding of the Global Prize for Innovation in Desalination 2024. This prestigious award was presented to Lee Nuang Sim from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University for his innovative project titled “uncovering the power of centrifugal reverse osmosis.” Additionally, Sue Mecham, the CEO of NALA Membranes, received the award for her project “chlorine stable new membranes for sustainable desalination and wastewater treatment/reuse.” Both winners expressed their gratitude and commitment to advancing water purification technologies.

Mecham, who hails from North Carolina, USA, shared her excitement after receiving the award, stating, “We are honored to be selected for the Global Prize for Innovation in Desalination 2024. Our mission is to bring new membranes to market and reduce the cost and complexity of water purification.” Her dedication to improving water treatment processes is commendable and highlights the importance of innovation in this critical field.

Another notable recipient of the award was Saudi Ghadeer Al-Balawi from the University of Tabuk. Her project, “novel heterogeneous catalysts for improving wastewater treatment plants in Saudi Arabia,” aims to enhance the efficiency of local wastewater treatment facilities. Al-Balawi expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am incredibly honored to be one of the recipients of the Global Prize for Innovation in Desalination 2024. This recognition means so much to me.” Her work, conducted at the University of Sheffield, showcases the collaborative efforts of researchers dedicated to finding sustainable solutions.

The conference was graced by the presence of dignitaries, including Makkah Deputy Emir Prince Saud bin Mishal and Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley. Abdullah Al-Abdulkarim, chairman of the Saudi Water Authority, emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering scientific and research innovation as a cornerstone for achieving water sustainability and security. He stated that the event reflects the importance of sharing innovative practices to ensure a sustainable water supply.

Sultan Al-Rajhi, a spokesperson for the Saudi Water Authority, highlighted the conference's role in discussing global practices and innovative solutions in the water industry. He noted, “This conference discusses the latest global practices and innovative solutions in the water industry, with the participation of experts, scientists, and specialists, who emphasize the pivotal role of innovation in accelerating the future prosperity of water and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for water and the environment.”

The two-day conference will continue to feature discussions on over 180 research papers, along with a water hackathon organized by the Saudi Water Innovation Center. These discussions are crucial for addressing the pressing challenges related to water scarcity and quality.

The Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference serves as a beacon of hope in the quest for sustainable water solutions. The recognition of innovative projects and the collaboration among experts from around the world highlight the importance of continued research and development in this field. As we face increasing water challenges, the commitment of scientists and researchers to finding effective solutions is more important than ever. Their work not only benefits local communities but also contributes to global efforts in achieving water sustainability for future generations.