Membrane Science and Research in Asia and the Middle East: State of the Art and Perspectives

Abstract

Asia and Middle East represent one of the most dynamic regions in the world which has experienced fast economic and technological growth. Access to clean and affordable water is essential for building resilience and maintaining human's well-being and livelihood development in this region. Likewise, various energy resources are fundamental to support stable economic and social progress for better life quality. In the coming decades, water and energy demand is projected to hike exponentially in Asia and Middle East region. While sustaining the pace to prosper in their growth and development, this region is facing a multitude of water-energy-environment nexus challenges. Over the last decade, massive economic development, population growth, urbanization and industrialization have come at the expense of the water and energy sustainability. Natural disasters and climate changes have further amplified the vulnerability of water and energy supply. The pressing needs have called for innovative ways to address issues related to water and energy in economically and environmentally sustainable manner.