The Maltese islands have a rich historical tradition in wisely managing their scarce water resources. Today, as the challenge of water security increases globally, Malta is implementing a new strand of technical innovations for improving water management. Applying integrated and innovative approaches and mobilising non-conventional water resources are pivotal in this effort.
Why is it important to revive traditional water management practices such as rainwater harvesting? What other options do technological advancements offer? What is Integrated Urban Water Resources Management and how does it contribute to improving lives in cities?
The workshop 'Non-Conventional Water Resources Management: Local Solutions', addressed to tertiary education students and young professionals of technical backgrounds, such as engineering, architecture, natural resources management and water technologies, will offer responses to these questions, while challenging participants to address real-life dilemmas in interactive sessions.
While technology and innovation provide solutions, they cannot solve the problem alone. Understanding the value of water as a source of life for humans and ecosystems, as well as its role to drive economic and social development is necessary. A new water culture toward water use includes awareness and empowerment to induce behavioral change.
How do we communicate water? How do we perceive water? Can water provide opportunities for jobs or business?
The workshop ‘Communicating Water Trends & Innovation to Engage Locals and Tourists’, addressed to tertiary education students and young professionals of creative backgrounds, such as art & design, media & communication, social sciences and history, will shed light to the hidden potential of water – a heritage component, a job enabler, an inspiration.
The two workshops will be held back-to-back and will be hosted by the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST | www.mcast.edu.mt). Registrations will open in October 2019 and participation is free of charge. The workshops can only host a limited number of participants, therefore early registration is highly advised.
Please follow updates on www.gwpmed.org (EVENTS), on www.gwpmed.org/NCWR (NEWS) and on www.facebook.com/NCWRProgramme.
Background
The workshops take place in the framework of the “Non Conventional Water Resources (NCWR) Program in Malta [aka Alter Aqua]” (www.gwpmed.org/NCWR), implemented in the Maltese Islands since 2011, that is currently in its 3rd phase (2019-2020). The Programme is designed by the regional organisation GWP-Med, one of the thirteen regions of the inter-governmental organisation Global Water Partnership (GWP), in partnership with the Energy and Water Agency (EWA ) and the Coca-Cola in Malta (General Soft Drinks S.A. and the Coca-Cola Company), supported primarily by The Coca-Cola Foundation and co-funded by EWA.