1.4 Adaptation to Water Scarcity and Regional Cooperation in the Middle East

Abstract

Water is in short supply in Jordan, Israel, and Palestine, the region defined as the study area for this chapter. The annual volume of renewable water resources is less than 200m3 per capita (cap), compared to approximately 800–1000m3 per cap in neighboring countries and up to 10000m3 per cap in water-rich countries. The available renewable surface and groundwater resources totaling 2.6 billion m3 per year are largely transboundary, shared by the three entities. Uneven spatial distribution of water, poor water conservation, inadequate treatment of wastewater, degradation of water quality, global warming, and extreme and frequent droughts increase the pressure on the scarce resources. This situation can lead to a water catastrophe, nearing a state of irreversible damage to water resources. The current situation was assessed and prospects for alleviation and mitigation were evaluated by an international working group. An independent assessment was carried out, addressing current and prospective deficiencies in transboundary water, seeing the study area as a single entity. Current and future water requirements were assessed (3 billion m3 for a population of 18 million in 2010 and approximately 6 billion m3 for a population of 30 million in 2040). It is hoped that all the region's inhabitants will be provided a sufficient, safe, and regular supply of water to satisfy domestic and economic needs, including the stability and sustainability of irrigation-dependent communities and food production.