Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The UAE is at the forefront of rain enhancement research and development, investing heavily in technologies like autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, drones, and laser-based applications, said Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer at the Technology Innovation Institute.
Delivering the opening speech on the second day of the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF), hosted by the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) and the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), Dr. Kasmi stressed that emerging technologies are revolutionising water supply security.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the forum runs until January 30 at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers, featuring participation of over 50 global experts, policymakers, and researchers exploring ways to advance discussions on water security and weather modification.
"The most water-stressed regions are in the Middle East and North Africa, where 83% of the population is exposed to extremely high water stress. By 2050, an additional 1 billion people are expected to live with extremely high water stress."
He stressed the need for scalable, efficient, and safe solutions, which the UAE has been actively researching and testing, including drone-based initiatives and laser technology for rain modification.
The challenges posed by water scarcity and climate variability necessitate a reevaluation of conventional methods, paving the way for innovative solutions that redefine the capabilities.
"By addressing these challenges together through innovation, collaboration and policy support, I am convinced we can see the full potential of unmanned aerial systems for water modification," he added.
Addressing misconceptions about cloud seeding, Dr. Kasmi clarified that it "enhances natural precipitation, using safe, environmentally friendly, non-toxic, salt-based materials" and is not responsible for extreme weather events like floods.
AI and Drones
Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the event, Professor Roelof Burger of North-West University shared insights on the role of AI and drones in rain and ice enhancement technologies.
He highlighted the importance of identifying potential opportunities and using AI to find the best routes and determine suitable conditions.
He explained that in operational projects, the goal is to maximise seeding opportunities, while in scientific experiments, it is more complex, requiring quick deployment of aircraft to seed specific clouds in a limited time.
Prof. Roelof also pointed out the impressive collaborative approach of the UAEREP:
"One of the outstanding features of the UAEREP was how it has been able to bring together scientists from all over the world. Top scientists in the world are competing for this. So not only that, but also when we see that the ultimate aim of this programme is to actually improve this science for everyone."
In an interview with Aletihad, Loïc Fauchon, President of the World Water Council, praised the growing potential of rain enhancement technologies, stating: "In a few years, they will be one of the innovations allowing more access to water, especially when modernised and widely accepted."
However, he stressed the importance of a diversified approach to water solutions, including desalination, water transfer, recycling, and underground water use.
Fauchon also discussed the role of demographic growth, particularly in Africa, where population increases will demand massive additional water supplies.
He noted that while climate change is a factor, "demographic increases in megacities" are another critical challenge that must be addressed alongside climate issues.
He further stressed the need for collaboration.
"The issue of water security is crucial for the global water community. We need to both produce more water, possibly through rainfall technology, and reduce consumption in agriculture and industry. The goal is to produce more, consume less, and ultimately provide access to water for 2 to 3 billion people who currently lack it," he added.
Also speaking to Aletihad, Dr. Linda Zou, Professor at Khalifa University, shared her success as a UAEREP's 1st Cycle Awardee, explaining how her project, "Using advanced nanotechnology to develop novel seeding materials for accelerated condensation and rain formation," led to the development of two novel cloud seeding materials.
These advancements aim to accelerate rain formation and promote faster precipitation.
Dr. Zou recognised the programme's crucial role in supporting research and development, saying: "The programme encourages us to further evaluate warm cloud seeding materials, and using them in field operations. This includes developing them into a deliverable product suitable for aircraft delivery."
