Nurturing Hope in Arid Lands: The Imperative of Rainwater Harvesting in Syria 🌧️

In a world where water scarcity looms large, did you know that the agriculture sector claims a staggering 72 percent of global freshwater withdrawals? It stands as the undisputed champion of water consumption, and with over 95 percent of our food relying on land production, the need for water is projected to surge by 35 percent by 2050 to meet the demands of a 50 percent increase in global food, fiber, and feed production compared to 2012 levels.

Yet, climate change has thrown a wrench into our water and food security mechanisms, hindering progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as reported by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its Sixth Assessment Report. This global challenge is keenly felt in countries like Syria, where water resources are already meager, and a multitude of factors, from population growth to global warming, are exacerbating the issue.

Syria's Water Woes:

Syria, in particular, has been grappling with a severe drought since late 2020, compounding its struggles due to decades of agricultural mismanagement and an 11-year conflict. The nation finds itself at a precarious tipping point, with croplands strained to recover from prolonged agricultural failure.

Rainwater Harvesting as a Solution:

Amidst this dire situation, the significance of rainwater harvesting (RWH) emerges as a potential lifeline against drought and water scarcity. Especially crucial in regions with erratic rainfall patterns, like Syria, RWH enhances resilience to shocks and ensures a consistent water supply during dry periods.

While water harvesting has never been entirely forgotten, it has faced neglect for an extended period. However, as we navigate through the devastating consequences of the current drought in Syria, the focus shifts to the importance of reviving and prioritizing rainwater harvesting practices.

Assessing the Landscape: A Closer Look at Rainwater Harvesting in Syria

The Save the Tigris Campaign has been at the forefront of advocating for the protection and preservation of one of Mesopotamia's iconic rivers. Now, with their latest report, "From Clouds to Communities: A Spotlight on Rainwater Harvesting in Syria," they're inviting you to delve deep into the intricate web of challenges, triumphs, and calls to action.

This report, which Hiba Mohamamd is the curator of, aims to provide a thorough assessment of the state of water harvesting in Syria at the moment while illuminating its historical significance in the country. With a primary objective of delving into recent Arabic literature on RWH techniques and their potential application for crop production, the paper scrutinizes the methods, designs, and impacts of RWH systems adopted in Syria.

In a world where water is a precious resource, rainwater harvesting emerges not just as a technique but as a beacon of hope. As we explore the depths of this essential practice, let's unravel the potential it holds for Syria and beyond. 🌍💦

Now that your curiosity is piqued, you're probably wondering, "Where can I read this insightful report?" Fear not! Buckle up for an enlightening journey as we unravel the findings and insights brought to you by Hiba Mohammad.Head over to the Save the Tigris Campaign's official website or click [here] to access the full report. 🌐🔗