Publication: Fresh Perspectives: Emerging Issues and Opportunities for Desalination in the Middle East and North Africa
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2025-12-05
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2025-12-05
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The Middle East and North Africa region faces severe water scarcity, intensified by climate change and growing demand. This paper explores desalination as a key adaptation strategy, with a focus on emerging issues and opportunities for middle- and low-income countries. It provides guidance to policymakers and practitioners by assessing technological innovations, outlining pathways to greater energy efficiency and renewable energy integration, emphasizing effective environmental and social management, identifying the pillars of strong sector governance, and examining how to ensure financial sustainability while mobilizing private investment. By integrating desalination within broader water-sector strategies and balancing these critical dimensions, the paper seeks to advance water security and resilience against mounting climate and development pressures across the region.
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“World Bank. 2025. Fresh Perspectives: Emerging Issues and Opportunities for Desalination in the Middle East and North Africa. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/43759 License: CC BY-NC 3.0 IGO.”
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