Regulation and Supervision Bureau to Participate in the International Water Summit 2014

 

Abu Dhabi, Nov 26, 2013 – (ACN Newswire) – The 2nd International Water Summit, a unique platform for promoting global collaboration on water sustainability to be held January 20-22 at ADNEC, has confirmed the participation of Nick Carter, Director General of the Regulation and Supervision Bureau (‘the Bureau’), in one of its highly anticipated panels.

Entitled ‘Water Security and Future Water Sustainability’, the panel discussion will highlight future opportunities for the UAE and discuss how improved water sustainability, regulation, technology and governance will enable the region to keep pace with commercial development and population growth.

As the independent regulator of the water sector in Abu Dhabi, the Bureau plays a crucial role in the sustainability of the sector. This includes collaborating with a number of government and operating company stakeholders to make sure there is a coherent and integrated water strategy, capable of effectively managing desalinated, recycled and ground water.

“We have issued regulations to ensure that recycled water from Abu Dhabi’s wastewater treatment plants is used effectively, safely and in applications appropriate for its quality. Other stakeholders, including the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency and the Food Control Authority are working with sectors such as agricultural and farming communities looking at best practice in irrigation technology and crop selection, reducing the pressure on native aquifers and water resources,” said Carter.

The Bureau’s Powerwise and Waterwise offices, launched in January 2013, champion effective water and electricity consumption in Abu Dhabi. “Through research and studies we are gathering high-quality data to better inform targeted campaigns for both domestic and non-domestic settings and to set policies in the future. We also partner with other government entities and sector stakeholders to put strategies in place that will promote an efficient water and wastewater sector. For instance, new buildings now have water-efficient fittings and the new water and electricity bills, launched in 2012, provide detailed information about consumption and the level of government subsidy,” added Carter.

“Awareness of the critical issues surrounding the use of drinking water and education are crucial to the sustainable availability of this precious resource. Understanding its true value is key, especially when promoting the wise use of resources and in this regard we are winning.”

The Bureau will be returning to support this event, with a 300 m2 stand. Following on a highly successful presence in 2013, 2014 promises to be even more exciting with new technology being showcased to provide a memorable user experience for all visitors.

The 2nd International Water Summit, hosted by Masdar and in strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, will be one of the centerpieces of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. As such, it will be joining forces with the World Future Energy Summit as well as the 1st edition of the EcoWASTE exhibition, both of them also hosted by Masdar, and a number of sustainability and energy initiatives, attracting the world’s attention and forming a unique platform of global expertise.

About the Regulation and Supervision Bureau

The Regulation and Supervision Bureau (the Bureau) is the independent regulatory body for the water, wastewater and electricity sector of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It has exclusive authority to regulate all companies undertaking activities associated with electricity and water production, transmission, distribution and supply. In addition, the Bureau also regulates the wastewater sector, which is responsible for collecting, treating and disposing of wastewater products. For additional information please visit:www.rsb.gov.ae.

About International Water Summit

IWS 2014, hosted by Masdar, is a global platform that hosts world leaders, government organizations, policymakers, public and private sector investors, business leaders, consultants and water experts to interact, negotiate and finalise plans to develop diverse and sustainable water portfolios in the GCC and other regions.

The inaugural edition of International Water Summit 2013, hosted by Masdar with the strategic Partnership of ADWEA, was attended by over 4700 attendees from 75 countries and contributed significantly to addressing global water issues such as water scarcity in Arab regions, sustainable growth and economic development in arid regions, the future challenges of water availability and cross-boundary collaboration through international water governance and the water – energy nexus.

IWS 2014, from 20-22 January 2014, is co-located with World Future Energy Summit, also hosted by Masdar, as a part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), a global platform that addresses the interconnected challenges that affect the widespread acceleration and adoption of sustainable development and renewable energy. For more information about the International Water Summit, visit:www.iwsabudhabi.com.

Contact:
Dania Ghalayini
Reed Exhibitions
Email: dania.ghalayini@reedexpo.ae
T: +971 2 491 7615

Ian Mason
ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller
Email: ian.mason@bm.com
T: +971 2 633 4133
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