Concluding Remarks by PROF. OLCAY ÜNVER, Arizona State University;
 
Former Vice-Chair, UN-Water, and Member, Water Policy Group

#WorldWaterDay2024 | #WaterForPeace | Opening Speech by Prof. OLCAY ÜNVER

Background: The virtual panel titled, “The Future of Sustainability of Water, Agriculture & Food: Water for Peace”  which was presented on March 24, 2024, aimed to contribute toward water awareness, building water conscience, and enhancing the general public understanding of the critical role and basic life form and appreciation of water in general. In connection with, “Water For Peace”, the LMGlobal.Org strongly thinks that without securing clean and affordable water and sustainable food for all, consequently, we cannot achieve the SDGS, or world peace, which are not separable and tied one to another such as skin and bond.
Through this panel, each speaker contributed from a different perspective in terms of country, theme-related field, and expertise along with crosscutting diverse issues.
We sought and received answer to one of the core questions on ‘how we can contribute toward increased behavior change in the minds of the governments, policymakers, businesses, scientific, engineering, and technology communities, and all users and consumers of water’ based on each respected country and/or instutution’s stand point. (Based on the Description and the Concept of the Panel)

[LMGlobal.Org] As we conclude this enlightening panel, “The Future of Sustainability of Water, Agriculture & Food: Water for Peace”, let us reflect on the insights shared.

We’ve delved into the intricate tapestry of water—its power to heal, its potential to divide, and its capacity to unite.

Can there be peace without clean water and food? We’ve explored the profound potential of water as a catalyst for peace, understanding its power to transcend boundaries and foster collaboration.

Addressing the plight of over half a billion impoverished children, and the billions lacking access to safe water, we’ve seen inspiring examples  aimed at providing them with clean water, food, and a peaceful future.

We’ve scrutinized the global landscape, identifying opportunities and challenges in ensuring sustainable, affordable access to clean water and food. Our discussions have underscored that without securing clean water, sanitation and hygiene for all at all times, the journey towards peace and prosperity remains incomplete.

Technology’s role in securing water and enhancing the sustainability of our agriculture and food systems has been a key focus of our dialogue. We’ve shared strategies and commitments to shield our precious water resources from the threats of pollution, and to make use of the circularity and mutually strengthening aspects in the water-food-energy- and environment nexus.

The impacts of climate change on water, agriculture, and food security have been highlighted, along with actionable solutions to these pressing challenges.

We’ve envisioned a future where wastewater is not waste but a resource, discussing transformative approaches to its reuse and to the use of water of all colors, black, gray, yellow, in residences and industries alike.

Finally, we’ve projected a future where water usage for energy is minimized, allowing for reallocation to essential needs like clean water, agriculture, and food.

As we close this wonderful dialogue, let us carry forward the insights and inspirations from today’s discussions, committing ourselves to action and advocacy for a water-wise world that fosters peace and prosperity for all. 

Thank you for your engagement and contributions to this vital conversation.

Opening Speech by Prof. OLCAY ÜNVER