Synopsis
On February 8, 2023, the Union for the Mediterranean unveiled a strategy to secure water supply for households, farmers, and businesses in the Mediterranean. This initiative includes the UfM Project Development Facility and a Mediterranean Water Academy to combat water scarcity effectively.Key Takeaways
- New strategy by Union for the Mediterranean to enhance water security.
- Focus on households, farmers, and local businesses.
- Introduction of Mediterranean Water Academy.
- Efforts to tackle water scarcity in the region.
- Continued commitment to environmental management.
Valletta, Feb 8 (NationPress) The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) has initiated a comprehensive strategy aimed at guaranteeing a reliable water supply for households, farmers, and local businesses within the region, as stated by Malta's Environment Ministry.
During a meeting convened by the UfM and hosted by Malta's Energy and Water Agency on Friday, participants from the UfM regional platform on water were in the process of drafting a Ministerial Declaration on Water in the Mediterranean. This document outlines initiatives including the UfM Project Development Facility and a Mediterranean Water Academy.
These initiatives aim to accelerate the execution of crucial water projects and provide local communities with the necessary expertise, technology, and financial support to combat water scarcity, as highlighted in the statement.
The European Maritime Transport Environmental Report 2025, released by the European Maritime Safety Agency and the European Environment Agency on Tuesday, reveals that the Mediterranean Sea is amongst the most polluted water bodies in the European Union, with pollution levels being the highest across the region.
The report indicates that Mediterranean waters have recorded the highest emissions of sulphur and nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and black carbon. Furthermore, the Mediterranean Sea faces an elevated risk of oil spills due to significant maritime traffic, as reported by Xinhua.
Highlighting Malta's ongoing efforts to enhance local water management, Maltese Minister for the Environment and Energy Miriam Dalli stated: 'Through collaboration and innovation, we can establish a foundation for a more resilient Mediterranean, ensuring secure and affordable water for all.'
Friday's ministerial declaration builds upon the Valletta Declaration, which was adopted in Malta back in 2017 during the UfM Ministerial Meeting focused on Water.
