Water consumption continues to be an issue in this country despite recent efforts to moderate its use. According to a new study by Prof Gokce Gunel at Columbia University, the average water use per capita in the emirate of Abu Dhabi is estimated at about 550 litres a day, almost three times the global average of 200 litres.
The number is startling, but we need to pose more questions and have more access to official data to better understand and contextualise that figure. How exactly does this number break down, how much is attributed to personal use and how much to industry?
Economic diversification has undoubtedly contributed to that large per capita consumption. For instance, we have several water-dependent industries, such as aluminium producers, but a small population. This raises the individual average, but also provides much needed context.
There is also an urgent need to find further irrigation solutions. This will bring both economic and environmental benefit to the country. Prof Gunel’s study said that irrigating the emirate’s plants, gardens and farms would exhaust groundwater reservoirs if continued at the same rate, although it is worth noting that many grass verges are maintained using treated waste water.
The reduction earlier this year of water and power subsidies will undoubtedly contribute to calming consumption. Even so, the current price of utilities remains low by global standards. The study said that as long as prices were relatively cheap, incentives to use less water were unlikely to succeed.
Simply, more must be done to change the equation. This is why Masdar’s research on sustainable supply is vital. We need new technologies that allow us to achieve water security. Grants, like the UAE Research Project for Rain Enhancement Science, are also important to encourage scientists from all over the world to participate in the process. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of the numbers that surround water consumption is the first and, arguably, the most important step to seeing off any potential crisis.
The specs
Engine: 6.2-litre V8
Transmission: seven-speed auto
Power: 420 bhp
Torque: 624Nm
Price: from Dh293,200
On sale: now
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The specs
Price, base / as tested Dh135,000
Engine 1.6L turbo
Gearbox Six speed automatic with manual and sports mode
Power 165hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque 240Nm @ 1,400rpm 0-100kph: 9.2 seconds
Top speed 420 kph (governed)
Fuel economy, combined 35.2L / 100km (est)
NO OTHER LAND
Director: Basel Adra, Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal
Stars: Basel Adra, Yuval Abraham
Rating: 3.5/5
Credit Score explained
What is a credit score?
In the UAE your credit score is a number generated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which represents your credit worthiness – in other words, your risk of defaulting on any debt repayments. In this country, the number is between 300 and 900. A low score indicates a higher risk of default, while a high score indicates you are a lower risk.
Why is it important?
Financial institutions will use it to decide whether or not you are a credit risk. Those with better scores may also receive preferential interest rates or terms on products such as loans, credit cards and mortgages.
How is it calculated?
The AECB collects information on your payment behaviour from banks as well as utilitiy and telecoms providers.
How can I improve my score?
By paying your bills on time and not missing any repayments, particularly your loan, credit card and mortgage payments. It is also wise to limit the number of credit card and loan applications you make and to reduce your outstanding balances.
How do I know if my score is low or high?
By checking it. Visit one of AECB’s Customer Happiness Centres with an original and valid Emirates ID, passport copy and valid email address. Liv. customers can also access the score directly from the banking app.
How much does it cost?
A credit report costs Dh100 while a report with the score included costs Dh150. Those only wanting the credit score pay Dh60. VAT is payable on top.
THE LOWDOWN
Photograph
Rating: 4/5
Produced by: Poetic License Motion Pictures; RSVP Movies
Director: Ritesh Batra
Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Sanya Malhotra, Farrukh Jaffar, Deepak Chauhan, Vijay Raaz
The five pillars of Islam
