Scientific Sessions and 11 Research Papers Highlight Day Two of the Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference

The 3rd Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference continued today (Tuesday) in Jeddah, where water experts and researchers discussed key future challenges facing global water resources. They presented innovative technological solutions that support environmental sustainability, enhance water efficiency, and address pressing challenges.

The scientific sessions showcased advanced perspectives on topics such as integrating modern technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), in water resource management. The discussions also highlighted the role of innovative technologies in reducing the environmental impact of desalination processes, serving as a critical step toward sustainable and comprehensive resource management.

In a keynote titled “SWA Pioneering the Future of Water,” Vice President for Water Research and Promising Technologies at Saudi Water Authority, Eng. Tariq Alqaffari, underscored the value of integrating local community needs with modern technologies to achieve comprehensive sustainability. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision to adopt innovative solutions for water challenges, explore new and unconventional technologies, and strengthen collaboration and communication for the benefit of all.

During the first session, experts Kala Vairavamoorthy and Bob Taylor discussed the future of water systems and the role of AI in improving operational efficiency and supporting decision-making through big data analysis.

The second session, led by strategic expert Amer Battikhi, addressed the impact of artificial intelligence on water sustainability. Participants shared practical applications for analyzing big data to reduce water losses and improve the efficiency of water distribution networks.

In the third and fourth sessions, innovative experiences were presented on the use of AI in water treatment, including live examples of advanced solutions to optimize networks and minimize waste.

The second day of the conference also featured 11 research papers presented by a select group of researchers and specialists. These papers addressed topics such as sustainable innovation in water management through circular economy applications, advanced desalination technologies, artificial intelligence, solutions for water challenges in arid regions, sustainable economic models for project financing, and public-private partnerships to improve the efficiency and sustainability of water systems. Additionally, several specialized workshops were held, focusing on AI-assisted simulation programs and exploring new water sources.

The conference activities included a training course organized by the Water Academy in partnership with Oxford University, supervised by an elite group of global experts and academics. The course aims to enhance innovation and develop the research skills of participants.

The accompanying exhibition saw significant attendance from visitors, participants, and university students. Major global companies and institutions showcased the latest technological applications designed to promote sustainability and future environmental solutions. Meanwhile, the creative competition intensified among participants in the “Miyahthon” Innovation Hackathon, as the selection of the most outstanding ideas draws closer. A total of 80 innovative projects are competing to improve the efficiency of desalination processes through advanced technologies and solutions.

The conference will continue tomorrow with scientific sessions and research papers addressing renewable energy, innovation accelerators, and water transportation and storage, featuring contributions from another group of experts and researchers.