ABU DHABI // Proposals for rain enhancement technology and research are being assessed in Abu Dhabi in an attempt to solve the scarcity of water, something a former Nasa scientist said is one of the world’s greatest challenges.
Seventy-eight proposals have been submitted by agencies around the world, offering ideas of how to increase rain in arid regions. The programme, under the umbrella of the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science, will provide US$5 million (Dh18.4m) in grants to five projects.
Dr Kathie Olsen, managing director of ScienceWorks, is on the reviewing panel.
“I used to be the chief scientist for Nasa, and when you are looking for life, the No 1 thing you look for is water. Why? Without it, our civilisation is dead,” she said.
“Water to me is one of the most important challenges that we face and if you don’t act now, you’re not going to be ready to answer some things, five to 10 years from now.
“This programme will lay research down that will have that impact.”
A joint project by the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) and the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, the programme aims to improve the practice of cloud seeding in the UAE.
During the process, substances are dispersed in the air in an attempt to change the precipitation produced by clouds.
The UAE is in particular need of more precipitation. On average, it receives only 100mm of rain per year.
“It was interesting, in the US, Nevada just did a press release saying that we need a lot more money in this area, and you’re thinking the UAE just did it, they’re ahead of their times,” Dr Olsen said.
The committee of experts will announce the shortlisted candidates on June 1.
The programme aims to enhance collaboration and investment.
“The programme offers an outstanding opportunity for talented innovators to reenergise research in a field that has been underfunded by the international scientific community,” said Dr Abdullah Al Mandoos, NCMS director.
The proposals originate from 40 countries, but a quarter were submitted from the UAE.
“Closer to home, we are especially delighted to receive 19 pre-proposals from teams of scientists and researchers based in the UAE. With the support of the UAE’s leadership, we can lead rain enhancement as a potentially key contributor towards ensuring water security,” he said.
“Globally, we have sought to drive this programme as a cluster point for innovative transnational cooperation and best practices.”
There are several phases to the application process. Following the announcement of the shortlist, successful candidates will be invited to develop full research proposals. The winners will be announced later this year.
“The technical committee will ensure that the pre-proposals selected for further development will advance the UAE’s efforts to address the water scarcity challenge in arid and semi-arid regions around the world, in a spirit of social and environmental awareness,” said Alya Al Mazroui, manager of the rain enhancement science research programme.
nalwasmi@thenational.ae