Water Scarcity In Jordan: Causes, Effects and Solutions

In this Article

Millions of people worldwide are impacted by the urgent global issue of water shortage. This issue significantly affects environmental sustainability, economic growth, and public health.

The desert landscapes of Jordan present a particularly acute problem. The limited water resources and growing demand affect both the population’s well-being and the region’s stability. This article explores the complex nature of water scarcity in Jordan, examining its causes, effects, and solutions.

Causes of Water Scarcity In Jordon

Arid Climate and Low Precipitation:

Jordan’s predominantly arid and semi-arid climate results in minimal rainfall, averaging less than 100 mm annually in many regions. This limited precipitation leads to low surface and groundwater recharge rates, constraining the country’s renewable water resources.

Population Growth

Rapid population growth, driven by high birth rates and the influx of refugees, particularly from neighbouring countries, has escalated water demand, exacerbating the scarcity issue. The large influx of Syrian refugees has further strained the country’s water resources.

Overexploitation of Water Resources

Excessive extraction of groundwater to meet agricultural, industrial, and domestic needs has led to the depletion of aquifers. In some areas, groundwater levels have declined by more than one meter annually, threatening the sustainability of these vital resources.

Transboundary Water Challenges

Jordan shares key water sources, such as the Jordan and Yarmouk Rivers, with neighbouring countries. Upstream diversions and dam constructions by these nations have significantly reduced water inflows into Jordan, complicating water management efforts.

Climate Change

Climate Change has led to increased temperatures and decreased precipitation in Jordan, further diminishing water resources and intensifying the challenges of water scarcity. The World Health Organization estimates that half of humanity may live in water-stressed areas by 2025, and the United Nations anticipates water scarcity could displace 700 million people by 2030.

Insufficient Water Management

Inefficient water management practices, including outdated infrastructure and water loss due to leaks, contribute to the scarcity issue. For example, rusted pipes can cause a change in the colour and taste of the water, triggering additional water loss through the disposal of dirty water.

Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive water management strategies, investment in water-efficient technologies, and regional cooperation to ensure sustainable water resources for Jordan’s population.

Effects of Water Scarcity

Economic Impacts

Water scarcity hampers agricultural productivity, a sector that contributes approximately 5% to Jordan’s GDP and employs a significant portion of the population. Reduced water availability limits crop yields and affects food security.

The agricultural sector is the largest consumer of water in Jordan, accounting for approximately 70% of water usage. The scarcity of water resources has led to reduced agricultural productivity, threatening food security and the livelihoods of those dependent on farming. This situation has resulted in increased food prices and a reliance on food imports, straining the national economy.

Apart from this, water scarcity poses a significant threat to Jordan’s industrial development and overall economic growth. Industries such as manufacturing and mining require substantial water inputs. The limited availability of water resources can lead to increased production costs, reduced industrial output, and hindered economic expansion.

Studies have projected that the economic risks associated with water scarcity could reduce Jordan’s GDP by between 6% and 14% by the year 2050. This potential decline underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to safeguard the nation’s economic future.

Impacts on Health

The economic impacts of water scarcity extend to public health. Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities increases the risk of waterborne diseases. Contaminated water sources can lead to illnesses such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever, posing a significant public health threat. Research indicates that water and sanitation deficits result in poor health outcomes, including the transmission of diseases.

Water scarcity adversely affects agriculture, leading to reduced food production and availability. This situation contributes to malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The lack of sufficient water for irrigation hampers crop yields, threatening food security and nutritional status.

Limited water access disproportionately affects low-income households, with projections indicating that by 2030, over 90% of Jordan’s low-income population will experience severe water insecurity, receiving less than 40 liters per capita per day

Water scarcity exacerbates social inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Limited access to water resources can lead to disparities in living conditions, education, and economic opportunities, deepening existing social divides.

The increasing population of refugees, has intensified water scarcity issues. The increased demand for water resources has strained existing infrastructure, leading to competition for limited water supplies and potential social tensions between refugees and host communities.

Potential Solutions to Address Water Scarcity

Water Conservation and Efficiency

Implementing water-saving technologies and practices across domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors is crucial. Public awareness campaigns can promote water conservation behaviours, encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce water usage. For instance, the adoption of water-efficient irrigation systems in agriculture can significantly decrease water consumption.

Wastewater Treatment and Reuse

Enhancing wastewater treatment facilities to produce high-quality effluent for reuse in agriculture and industry can alleviate pressure on freshwater resources. Jordan has initiated projects to improve wastewater treatment and reuse, aiming to integrate treated wastewater into agricultural practices.

Desalination Projects

Desalinating seawater offers a potential solution to augment water supply. The Red Sea-Dead Sea Conveyance project, a joint effort by Jordan and Israel, aims to address water scarcity through desalination and hydroelectric power. However, this project faces challenges, including environmental concerns and high financial costs.

Regional Cooperation

Collaborating with neighboring countries and international organizations can lead to shared water management strategies and the development of transboundary water resources. Such cooperation fosters regional stability and sustainable water use. For example, the water-for-energy deal signed in November 2021 between Jordan and Israel involves Jordan exporting solar energy to Israel in exchange for desalinated water, promoting regional collaboration.

Policy and Governance

Strengthening water governance through the development of comprehensive water management plans and policies is essential. The 2023-2040 National Water Strategy aims to improve water availability and quality by preserving water sources and reducing water-intensive practices.

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

Implementing measures to mitigate and adapt to climate change can help reduce its impact on water resources. The Jordan Integrated Landscape Management Initiative focuses on sustainable land and water use to enhance climate resilience and biodiversity.

Conclusion

Addressing water scarcity in Jordan requires a multifaceted approach that combines technological innovation, policy reforms, regional collaboration, and public engagement to ensure a sustainable water future for the nation. By implementing these solutions, Jordan can work towards mitigating the adverse effects of water scarcity and securing its water resources for future generations.

Planet Pulse