Industry’s Role in Water and Environmental Security at MENA Conference
Eric Awomolo Speaks on Industry’s Role in Water and Environmental Security at MENA Conference
At the 6th MENA Environmental Law and Policy Scholars’ Conference, held at Arab East Colleges in Riyadh from February 24-26, 2025, Eric Awomolo, MD of EA KNOCK ENERGY, delivered a presentation on “Industry and Multi-stakeholder Approaches to Environmental and Water Security.”
The session focused on how businesses can take proactive steps to integrate sustainability, innovation, and corporate responsibility into their operations to address growing environmental challenges.
The Role of Industry in Water and Environmental Security
Water scarcity is a global concern, with only 0.5-1% of the world’s water being usable. Industries play a critical role in sustainable water management and environmental security, making it imperative for businesses to adopt responsible practices, collaborate with stakeholders, and invest in innovative solutions.
Key Insights from the Presentation
🔹 Corporate Sustainability Commitments – Businesses must integrate water conservation and waste reduction into their operations.
🔹 Community Engagement – Collaboration with local stakeholders and policymakers is essential for long-term environmental impact.
🔹 Technology and Innovation – AI, smart metering, and big data analytics can optimize water management and improve efficiency.
🔹 Policy and Advocacy – Industries should actively support strong environmental policies that drive sustainability efforts.
🔹 Investment in Sustainable Initiatives – Funding through grants, loans, and co-financing is crucial to scaling environmental efforts.
Case Study: Coca-Cola’s Sustainability Efforts
Coca-Cola’s commitment to water conservation, packaging sustainability, and emissions reduction was highlighted as an industry model. In 2023, the company:
● Returned 148% of the water used in its beverages to nature and communities.
● Increased recyclability of packaging to 90%, with a goal of 100% by 2025.
● Reduced absolute emissions by 8% since 2015, with a target of 25% reduction by 2030.
A Call to Action for Industry Leaders
Eric Awomolo emphasized that industries must act now to drive sustainability. By integrating innovation, community partnerships, and responsible policies, businesses can lead the way in addressing water and environmental challenges.
Download the Presentation
For more insights, download the full presentation here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cZnpzmD-xwTTviSGkQbfmkgjvoEmvxVo/view?usp=drive_link
