World Water Day: Innovating for a Sustainable Water Future

Every year on March 22nd, the world comes together to observe World Water Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of water and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This global event serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role that water plays in our lives, economies, and ecosystems. In 2024, the theme for World Water Day is “Water for Peace,” highlighting the essential role of water in fostering stability and prosperity worldwide.

Water holds immense value across economic, environmental, social, and cultural dimensions. It serves as a cornerstone of life, powering industries, sustaining ecosystems, and nourishing communities. At IDE, we understand the profound impact of water scarcity and pollution on communities, industries, and the environment and we are committed to leverage innovative technologies and solutions to address these challenges and pave the way for a sustainable water future.   As a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation, IDE has been nominated for two GWI Awards this year –  Water Company of the Year and Net Zero Carbon Champion.

The Carlsbad Desalination Plant

Confronting Water Scarcity with Advanced Solutions

Water scarcity is a looming global problem. 703 million people lack access to clean water. That’s 1 in 10 people on the planet. Due to drought, since 2014, California has lost at least 2 billion-dollars a year. And to date, 44% of all wastewater on Earth returns to the environment untreated. The cost of water scarcity and pollution impacts every aspect of our lives.  

IDE is at the forefront of confronting this challenge with advanced solutions that promote sustainable water management. Through our core technologies in desalination, water reuse, and water treatment, IDE is pioneering innovative approaches to address water scarcity and ensure water security for generations to come.

In regions where freshwater sources are limited or depleted, desalination offers a sustainable solution by harnessing the vast potential of seawater and brackish water. Our cutting-edge desalination plants utilize advanced membrane technologies and energy-efficient processes to produce high-quality drinking water from seawater, providing a reliable and resilient source of freshwater for communities around the globe.

IDE is also leading the way in facilitating water reuse as a critical strategy for enhancing water sustainability. By treating wastewater to meet stringent quality standards, we enable industries and municipalities to recycle and reclaim water resources that would otherwise go to waste. Our innovative water reuse solutions not only alleviate pressure on freshwater sources but also contribute to environmental conservation by reducing the discharge of pollutants into water bodies and minimizing the need for freshwater withdrawals.

IDE’s expertise in water treatment encompasses a diverse range of technologies and processes aimed at improving water quality and ensuring the safe and efficient management of water resources. From advanced filtration to customized treatment solutions for specific contaminants, we provide comprehensive water treatment solutions tailored to the unique needs and challenges of each project. Our innovative water treatment solutions play a vital role in safeguarding public health, protecting ecosystems, and promoting sustainable water use practices.

For example, Sorek 2, the largest desalination plant in Israel with a capacity of  670,000 m³/day, combines the most advanced and innovative water management technologies; a state-of-the-art modular design, carbon capturing solution, and self production of chemicals.

Or another IDE project, the Bonaire desalination plant in the Southern Caribbean,  a modular, chemical-free facility produces 5,600 m3/d of drinking water, catering to the needs of nearly 22,500 residents while achieving a remarkable 15% reduction in electricity consumption.

     The Bonaire desalination plant

Sharing Forces for a Water-Secure World

Partnerships and collaboration are vital in addressing water challenges effectively. IDE works closely with governments, communities, and stakeholders to develop holistic solutions that align with shared water sustainability goals. Take for example the  Cherokee Metropolitan District’s wastewater treatment plant in Colorado. In this  municipal reuse project, IDE’s unique high-recovery RO solution, MAXH2O-PFRO, allows the city to comply with the treatment and disposal regulations and maximize production with an exceptional 90% recovery rate. Also, in Carlsbad, California, IDE and its partners worked diligently for more than 10 years to develop an award winning desalination plant. The plant  provides 10% of the total drinking water needed by San Diego, delivering potable water to 400,000 people while strictly adhering to local regulations imposed by the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA).

Through collaborative projects with municipalities and other entities, IDE is fostering resilience and building a water-secure world for future generations.

Toward a Sustainable Water Future

As we commemorate World Water Day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to preserving this precious resource. IDE’s innovations and solutions are leading the way, demonstrating that through ingenuity and collaboration, we can overcome the water challenges of today and build a brighter tomorrow. Join us in our mission to innovate for a more sustainable water future.

Talk to our experts to learn about IDE’s innovative water treatment solutions.