Net Zero Water Consumption Project
Started: January 2023 – Ongoing
Location: Erbil, Sami Abdulrahman Park
Goal: Climate Action and Water Scarcity
Role of Hasar: Founder and Implementer
The Net-Zero Water Consumption project is more than a response to the dwindling groundwater wells in Erbil City, it is a transformative approach to water management. As the water table of Erbil City drops by approximately 500 meters, the frequency of well drying has increased significantly over the past few years, with about 300 wells drying up in the summer of 2022. Our innovative approach seeks to achieve net-zero water consumption through a comprehensive strategy that includes managed consumption, wastewater recycling, and managed aquifer recharge. By 2030, Erbil City will reach a new level of water management that will secure sustainable water resources for generations to come.
The Net Zero Water Consumption project is a groundbreaking initiative developed by the Hasar Organization, aimed at reviving the groundwater of Erbil City through a multi-approach water conservation strategy. Our organization has collaborated with leading institutions and corporates to ensure the project’s success. In late 2022, Szeged University from Hungary reviewed the strategic project document and provided their expertise in water management. Later that year, Cihan Bank became a strategic partner of the project by providing the necessary financial support. The Kurdistan Regional Government (the ministry of municipality and tourism) has also provided their full support by agreeing to provide the necessary data for starting the baseline study of the project in early 2023. With the Hasar Organization leading the way, Erbil City is on track to achieve sustainable water management and set an example for other cities to follow.
The main objectives of this project;
- Develop a cutting-edge water budgeting system that optimizes the use of water resources in the park.
- Implement state-of-the-art surface and subsurface water storage technologies that improve the park’s water resilience and reduce reliance on groundwater resources.
- Pioneer advanced wastewater reuse practices that reduce water waste and enhance the park’s sustainability.
- Spearhead the legal implementation of a net zero water consumption policy that sets a new standard for sustainable water management in the region.
Why do we start from Sami Abdulrahman Park of Erbil?
Sami Abdulrahman Park is an essential landmark of Erbil, covering over two million square meters. But the park’s existence is under threat, as its irrigation system relies heavily on groundwater. With 19 wells to draw from, the park already experiences water shortages and well depletion every year, endangering its future. Climate change will only exacerbate the problem, with heat waves and droughts compounding the water scarcity issue. Without intervention, the park’s greenery and water resources will be at risk, putting the community’s health and well-being in jeopardy. That’s where the Net-Zero water consumption project comes in. By leveraging cutting-edge modeling and simulation techniques, we can implement sustainable solutions that reduce the park’s water consumption to net-zero levels. The project is a critical step in preserving Sami Abdulrahman Park and safeguarding the groundwater for generations to come.
Milestones
- June 2022: Our organization performed a groundbreaking pilot experiment for recycling wastewater, showcasing our innovative approach to combat water scarcity.
- October 2022: A 120m road is now home to our baffle recycling system, installed as part of our commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.
- December 2022: A major milestone was reached as Hasar signed a significant MoU with Szeged University, further solidifying our commitment to driving meaningful change.
- January 2023: Our mission to make a positive impact is supported by Cihan Bank, who became a proud sponsor of the Net-Zero Water Consumption project.
- February 2023: The Kurdistan Region Government has provided crucial data that will help us model and better understand the groundwater, further fueling our efforts to build a more sustainable future.
Road Map of the Project
- In 2022, Hasar Organization made a groundbreaking move by allocating a team of expert academic researchers, including two renowned local researchers, Hawkar Ali Abdulhaq and Sarkhel Hawre Mohammed, from prestigious universities such as Szeged and Miskolc.
- Hasar Organization’s vision for the project was compiled in late 2022, setting the stage for an ambitious and revolutionary approach to solving environmental issues.
- The project received a major boost in late 2022, securing an academic partnership with Szeged University through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
- A key milestone was reached in early 2023 when Cihan Bank joined the project as a strategic partner, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and the fight against climate change.
- In early 2023, Hasar Organization presented the project to the Kurdistan Region Government, signaling the potential for significant impact and change.
- Hasar Organization aims to make a significant contribution in 2023 by conducting a baseline study of groundwater in Sami Abdulrahman Park using advanced simulation and modeling techniques.
- In 2023, the implementation of alternative water resources in Sami Abdulrahman Park will take place, making it a leading example of sustainable practices.
- The baseline study for smart irrigation in Sami Abdulrahman Park will also be conducted in 2023, using the latest technology and innovative techniques to achieve maximum efficiency and impact.
Our partners and sponsors in this project
Kurdistan Regional Government allocated data and approval for implementing the project
Cihan Bank is strategic partner through providing initiative financial support
University of Szeged, department of Mineralogy, Geochemistry, and Petrology contribute by making the baseline report study.
Partner in wastewater recycling system installation.
Contact us if you want to sponsor or become a partner with the Net-Zero Water Consumption Project.