The Daily Guardian

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing issues faced by small-scale farmers in arid regions. With changing climate patterns and increasing demand for water resources, these farmers often struggle to sustain their livelihoods. However, advancements in water generation technologies are providing new solutions to address this challenge.

Atmospheric Water Generation

Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) is a cutting-edge technology that extracts moisture from the air and converts it into potable water. This technology is particularly beneficial in arid regions where traditional water sources are scarce. AWG systems can operate in a variety of environmental conditions, making them a reliable water source for small-scale farmers.

Benefits for Farmers

  • Reliable Water Supply: AWG systems provide a consistent and reliable water supply, reducing farmers’ dependency on erratic rainfall and depleting groundwater sources. This ensures that crops receive adequate water, leading to better yields and increased food security.
  • Cost-Effective: Once installed, AWG systems have relatively low operating costs. They reduce the need for expensive water transportation and storage infrastructure, making them an economically viable option for small-scale farmers.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: By providing a sustainable water source, AWG systems enable farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. This includes efficient irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation, which minimises water wastage and maximises crop productivity.
  •  Resilience to Climate Change: As climate change exacerbates water scarcity, AWG systems offer a resilient solution. They can continue to generate water even in extreme weather conditions, ensuring that farmers have access to water year-round.

Supporting Indoor Farming And Hydroponics

AWGs are also proving to be invaluable for indoor farming, particularly hydroponics. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in an aqueous solvent. This method requires a consistent and reliable water source, which AWGs can provide.

  • Micro Farms: AWGs enable the setup of micro farms in arid regions where traditional farming is not feasible. These micro farms can be established indoors, providing fresh produce year-round, regardless of external weather conditions.
  • Consistent Water Supply: Hydroponic systems thrive on a consistent water supply, and AWGs ensure that plants receive the right amount of water and nutrients at all times. This leads to healthier plants and higher yields.
  •  Efficient Water Use: Hydroponics combined with AWG technology ensures efficient use of water, reducing wastage significantly. The closed-loop system of hydroponics recycles water, and AWGs replenish any lost moisture, making the system highly sustainable.

Other Innovative Water Technologies

In addition to AWG, several other water generation technologies are making a positive impact on small-scale farming in arid regions:

  • Desalination: Desalination plants convert seawater into freshwater, providing an abundant and reliable water source. While traditionally used in coastal areas, advancements in portable desalination units are making this technology accessible to inland farmers as well.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater during the wet season is a traditional yet highly effective method. Modern rainwater harvesting systems are equipped with filtration and storage solutions, ensuring that water remains safe for agricultural use throughout the year.
  • Solar-Powered Irrigation: Solar-powered pumps and irrigation systems harness renewable energy to extract and distribute water efficiently. These systems are particularly beneficial in off-grid areas where access to electricity is limited.

Challenges And Future Prospects

Despite the promise of these technologies, there are challenges to their widespread adoption. High initial costs, lack of awareness, and limited technical expertise can hinder implementation. However, with increasing governmental and non-governmental support, these barriers are gradually being addressed.

Public-private partnerships are playing a crucial role in scaling up these technologies. Subsidies, training programs, and awareness campaigns are helping small-scale farmers understand and adopt water generation technologies.

Conclusion

Water generation technologies like AWG, desalination, rainwater harvesting, and solar-powered irrigation are transforming agriculture in arid regions. By providing a reliable and sustainable water supply, these technologies empower small-scale farmers to enhance their productivity and resilience against climate change.

As we continue to innovate and invest in these solutions, the future holds great promise for farmers in arid regions, ensuring that they can thrive despite the challenges posed by water scarcity.

Inc42

Water scarcity is a pressing challenge that impacts agriculture worldwide. With climate change exacerbating droughts and depleting traditional water sources, farmers face increasing difficulties in securing a reliable water supply for irrigation. This problem is particularly acute in arid and semi-arid regions where agriculture often relies on unpredictable rainfall or over-extracted groundwater. To address these challenges, innovative solutions like Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) technology are emerging as game-changers, offering a consistent and sustainable water source for agricultural use.

Understanding AWG Technology

Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) is a technology that extracts moisture from the air and converts it into clean, potable water. By harnessing the humidity present in the atmosphere, AWG systems produce water that can be used for a variety of applications, including agriculture. Unlike traditional methods such as borewells or surface water extraction, AWG does not deplete existing water resources. Instead, it taps into a renewable source—the moisture in the air—making it an ideal solution for regions facing water scarcity.

Benefits of AWG in Agriculture

1.Steady Water Supply: One of the most critical focal points of AWG innovation is its capacity to give a reliable water supply. In regions where irrigation is challenging, due to a lack of reliable water sources, AWG can offer a dependable alternative. This helps farmers maintain crop production and reduce their reliance on erratic weather patterns, ultimately improving food security.

2. Scalability and Flexibility: AWG systems, such as Akvo’s modular Water Block, are highly scalable and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of agricultural operations. Whether for small-scale farms or large agricultural estates, these systems can be adjusted to produce the required volume of water, ranging from 50 liters to 100,000 liters per day. This flexibility makes AWG suitable for a wide range of agricultural settings, from greenhouse irrigation to open-field farming.

3. Environmental Sustainability: AWG technology supports sustainable agriculture by reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional water extraction methods. For instance, pumping groundwater or diverting surface water often leads to ecosystem degradation and decreased biodiversity. AWG, on the other hand, extracts water without disturbing natural water bodies or soil. Moreover, advancements in AWG efficiency, such as energy optimization and IoT integration, make these systems increasingly eco-friendly.

Real-World Applications and Success Stories

AWG technology is already making strides in agriculture, particularly in regions where water scarcity is a critical concern. In India, for example, pilot projects have demonstrated the potential of AWG to support smallholder farmers by providing an alternative water source for crops like rice, wheat, and vegetables. In the GCC region, where water scarcity is a daily reality, AWG systems are being explored to support large-scale agricultural initiatives, helping to reduce dependence on costly and environmentally taxing desalination processes.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While the potential of AWG in agriculture is immense, there are challenges to consider. Initial setup costs and energy requirements are often cited as barriers to widespread adoption. However, continuous innovation in the field is addressing these issues, with new models boasting improved energy efficiency and lower costs. As the technology evolves, it is expected that AWG will become more accessible and economically viable for farmers worldwide.

Integrating AWG technology into agriculture presents a promising solution to the global water scarcity challenge. By providing a sustainable, scalable, and consistent water source, AWG can help farmers maintain productivity and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. As stakeholders in the agriculture sector look towards innovative ways to enhance water security, AWG stands out as a viable and forward-thinking approach. Embracing this technology can transform water management in agriculture, ensuring a more sustainable future for food production.

Read the original article here to learn more about how AWG technology is revolutionizing agriculture and addressing global water scarcity.

Navkaran Singh Bagga is the  CEO & Founder of Akvo.

Innovating Global Access to Sustainable Clean Drinking Water

Introduction

Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems, established in 2017 and headquartered in Kolkata, stands at the forefront in addressing global water scarcity through innovative technology. Akvo focuses on extracting clean drinking water from atmospheric moisture, offering a sustainable solution to the challenge of water access worldwide.

Technological Innovation

Akvo specializes in Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) systems, which harness moisture from the air to produce potable water. This technology is particularly valuable for remote areas lacking traditional water infrastructure, eliminating the need for extensive pipelines and minimizing environmental impact. The AWG units are designed to operate efficiently across various humidity levels and can be integrated with solar power, enhancing sustainability and reducing operational costs.

Economic Viability

Despite higher initial costs compared to conventional methods such as Reverse Osmosis (RO), Akvo’s Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis over five years demonstrates significant cost-effectiveness. With a competitive cost per liter of 2.22 INR (0.027 USD), Akvo’s AWG systems prove financially viable in the long term, making them a preferred choice for communities seeking reliable water sources.

Global Impact

Operating in 15 countries with a daily production capacity of 250,000 liters of water, Akvo has established a robust global footprint. This widespread presence highlights the universal applicability of AWG technology in addressing water scarcity challenges across diverse regions and cultures.

Strategic Partnerships

Looking forward, Akvo continues to expand its influence through strategic collaborations across sectors. By partnering with corporate entities and engaging in humanitarian efforts, Akvo aims to extend the benefits of its AWG technology to residential communities, support disaster relief efforts and enhance water resilience in vulnerable regions worldwide.

Conclusion

Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems exemplifies how innovation and sustainability intersect to address one of humanity’s most pressing issues. By utilizing atmospheric moisture to generate clean drinking water, Akvo not only meets immediate water needs but also contributes to a more sustainable and water-secure future for communities globally.

Full article link: Bringing Sustainable Solutions to the Tap: Accessibility to Clean Drinking Water Globally

Anuj Ramatri – An EcoFreak

We are thrilled to collaborate with Anuj Ramatri, who has shared our vision in such an inspiring way. Our innovative air-to-water solution, which transforms air into fresh, potable water. This technology holds immense potential to provide clean drinking water to communities in need and we are grateful to Anuj for helping us spread the word about a sustainable future where water is available anywhere, anytime.

Turning Air into Fresh Drinking Water: How Akvosphere Does It!

Imagine a world where fresh water is available anywhere, anytime, just by harnessing the power of air. That’s the future Akvosphere is building!
In this video, we dive deep into their innovative technology that extracts clean drinking water right from the air. You’ll discover:

  • The science behind extracting water from thin air.
  • How Akvosphere’s technology works. (it’s simpler than you think!)
  • The benefits of this sustainable water solution.
  • How this technology can bring clean water to communities in need.

Whether you’re interested in sustainable solutions, cutting-edge technology or simply curious about the future of water, this video is for you!

Addressing a Global Challenge with Innovation!

Our world faces an urgent water crisis, affecting billions. It’s a scenario that requires immediate action, innovative thinking, and global collaboration. Inspired by the ancient concept of ‘Akrasia’ — the act of knowing what is right but not acting upon it — we are determined to bridge the gap between knowledge and action.

In this video, Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO of Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems discusses the harsh reality of water scarcity, the universal need for sustainable solutions, and how Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems is rising to meet this challenge. The Atmospheric Water Generation Systems represents more than just technological innovation; they are a beacon of hope, turning air into life-sustaining water.

Let’s move from inaction to impact, from scarcity to abundance. Share your thoughts, your actions, and let’s spread the word.

Together, we can create a future where access to clean water is a reality for all.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMYCWhGrPn4

Bihar’s Bold Commitment to a Cleaner Future

Water waste management is a critical aspect of environmental sustainability and public health, particularly in regions facing rapid urbanization and industrialization like Bihar. This report aims to provide an overview of the current status of water waste management in Bihar, highlighting challenges, initiatives, and recommendations for improvement.

Current Status

Solid Waste Management: Bihar faces significant challenges in solid waste management, with a rising trend in emissions from solid waste disposal. From 2016 to 2020, emissions increased by 32.3%, indicating the urgency for immediate action.

Domestic Wastewater Management: The treatment of domestic wastewater is a notable contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In 2020, emissions from domestic wastewater reached 6.69 million tCO2e, highlighting the need for improved management strategies.

Industrial Wastewater Management: Industrial wastewater, emitting approximately 1.1 million tCO2e, poses another significant challenge. Inadequate sewage collection and treatment contribute to high methane generation from untreated discharge.

Initiatives and Challenges

Low-Carbon Action Plan (LCAP): Bihar has initiated a comprehensive LCAP for the waste and domestic wastewater sector. This plan includes low-carbon interventions and recommendations for emission reductions, aiming to achieve net-zero status by 2070.

Challenges: Despite initiatives like the LCAP, Bihar faces challenges such as inadequate sewage collection and treatment infrastructure, prevalent septic tanks leading to untreated discharge, and limited industrial wastewater management practices.

Recommendations

Infrastructure Development: Invest in the development of sewage collection and treatment infrastructure to effectively manage domestic and industrial wastewater. This includes the expansion of treatment plants and the promotion of decentralized treatment systems.

Promotion of Anaerobic Treatment with Methane Recovery: Prioritize anaerobic treatment of wastewater with methane recovery to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Encourage the adoption of technologies for methane capture from treatment processes.

Enhanced Source Segregation and Waste Collection: Implement comprehensive door-to-door waste collection systems with enhanced source segregation. Promote community awareness programs to encourage waste reduction at the source.

Strengthened Policy Enforcement: Enforce existing waste management policies rigorously to ensure compliance and accountability among stakeholders. Implement penalties for improper waste disposal practices to deter non-compliance.

Capacity Building and Training: Provide training and capacity-building programs for local authorities, waste management workers, and community members to enhance their knowledge and skills in effective waste management practices.

Conclusion

Bihar’s commitment to transforming its waste management profile through initiatives like the LCAP demonstrates a proactive approach towards environmental sustainability. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, Bihar can move closer to achieving its goal of sustainable water waste management and contribute to a greener future.

How does Akvo contribute to zero water wastage?

Akvo’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future encompasses promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 6 – Clean water and sanitation for all, as well as SDG 14 – Life Below Water. One significant aspect of Akvo’s contribution is through its water supply system, which includes Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) which create pure drinking water from air without any water wastage. Here’s how Akvo can be an integral part of this process:

No Impact on Aquatic Ecosystems: Akvo’s water supply system, particularly AWGs, operates without relying on external water sources or pipelines. This means there is no extraction or diversion of water from aquatic ecosystems, ensuring minimal to no impact on marine life and ecosystems which promotes SDG 14.

Clean Drinking Water: By utilizing AWGs, Akvo provides clean drinking water without the need for traditional water sources. This ensures that communities have access to safe and reliable drinking water, promoting SDG 6 – Clean water and sanitation for all.

Zero Water Wastage: Akvo’s AWGs generate water from the air without producing any wastewater. This zero water wastage feature not only ensures efficient water utilization but also aligns with efforts to reduce water wastage and promote sustainable water management practices.

Link to article: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/waste/bihar-to-strengthen-waste-management-profile-by-formulating-a-low-carbon-action-plan-94963

Water scarcity and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Water scarcity and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are interconnected issues that companies and organizations should address together to promote sustainable development. Let’s explore both concepts and their relationship:

Water Scarcity: Water scarcity refers to the imbalance between water availability and water demand in a particular region. It occurs when the available water resources are insufficient to meet the needs of the population, industries, and ecosystems in the area. Water scarcity can result from various factors, including climate change, over-extraction of groundwater, pollution, inefficient water management, and population growth.

Water scarcity has severe consequences, such as:

  • Reduced access to clean drinking water for communities.
  • Impacts on agricultural productivity and food security.
  • Adverse effects on ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • Strains on industries reliant on water for production and operations.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): CSR is a concept where businesses and organizations consider the impact of their activities on society and the environment. It involves taking responsibility for the company’s actions and incorporating social and environmental concerns into their business practices. CSR initiatives aim to go beyond mere profit-making and address societal and environmental issues for the greater good.

CSR can be demonstrated through actions such as:

  • Implementing sustainable and environmentally friendly business practices.
  • Supporting local communities through various initiatives.
  • Promoting ethical business standards and responsible supply chains

Water Scarcity and CSR Connection: Water scarcity poses significant challenges for communities, ecosystems, and businesses. As a vital natural resource, water plays a critical role in sustaining life, supporting economic activities, and maintaining ecosystems. Therefore, businesses have a vested interest in addressing water scarcity as part of their CSR efforts.

Some ways in which companies can incorporate water scarcity into their CSR strategies include:

  • Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving technologies and practices in their operations to reduce water consumption.
  • Water Stewardship: Engaging in efforts to protect and restore water resources in the communities where they operate.
  • Supporting Access to Clean Water: Partnering with NGOs and local organizations to improve access to clean and safe drinking water in water-stressed regions.
  • Water Education: Raising awareness about water conservation and the importance of responsible water usage among employees, customers, and stakeholders.
  • Responsible Supply Chain: Encouraging suppliers and partners to adopt sustainable water practices throughout the supply chain.

By addressing water scarcity as part of their CSR initiatives, companies can contribute to sustainable water management, positively impact communities, and help preserve the environment for future generations.

Creating Water from Air: An ESG-Friendly Solution to Combat Water Scarcity

In a world grappling with the impact of climate change and water scarcity, the need for sustainable water solutions has never been more pressing. The traditional methods of obtaining water may not be sufficient to meet the growing demands of an expanding global population. However, a promising and environmentally friendly technology has emerged – creating water from air. This innovative approach not only addresses water scarcity but also aligns perfectly with the principles of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) responsibility. In this blog, we explore how this sustainable technology can play a vital role in combating water scarcity while promoting a greener future.

Water Scarcity and Climate Change: Water scarcity is one of the most significant challenges facing humanity today. With changing weather patterns and increasing temperatures due to climate change, many regions are experiencing more frequent and severe droughts, leading to depleted water sources. Traditional freshwater sources, such as rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers, are under immense pressure, and their rapid depletion threatens the delicate balance of ecosystems worldwide. The urgency to address this crisis demands innovative and sustainable solutions that can adapt to the changing climate.

The Promise of Creating Water from Air: Creating water from air, also known as atmospheric water generation, is an ingenious technology that taps into the Earth’s abundant resource – the atmosphere. The atmosphere contains vast amounts of water vapor, and this technology leverages condensation principles to extract and convert that vapor into liquid water suitable for various uses. Solar energy or other renewable energy sources can power the process, making it a green energy solution with low environmental impact.

Environmental and Social Impact: This sustainable technology presents a plethora of environmental benefits. By relying on renewable energy sources, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lessens the carbon footprint, making it a significant step towards mitigating climate change. Moreover, this technology can operate independently of traditional water infrastructure, avoiding the need for costly and resource-intensive pipelines or desalination plants. Consequently, it can provide access to clean drinking water in remote and underserved regions, promoting social equity and bridging the gap between urban and rural communities.

ESG-Friendly and Socially Responsible: The principles of ESG are gaining traction across industries, and investing in sustainable technologies is increasingly becoming a priority for socially responsible companies. Creating water from air checks all the boxes for an ESG-friendly solution. Companies that adopt and invest in this technology demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and long-term social impact. This not only helps companies build a positive public image but also attracts environmentally conscious investors, driving financial support for further research and implementation.

As water scarcity continues to intensify in the face of climate change, the importance of adopting sustainable water solutions cannot be overstated. Creating water from air is a promising technology that offers an environmentally friendly and socially responsible approach to combat water scarcity. By harnessing renewable energy sources, this innovative method not only addresses the challenges posed by climate change but also aligns with ESG principles. As we work towards a greener and more sustainable future, investing in and promoting technologies like creating water from air becomes imperative to ensure access to clean water for all and preserve the planet for generations to come.

 

How population affects Water scarcity.

As the global population grows, the demand for water increases in various sectors such as agriculture, industry, and domestic use. This heightened demand places additional stress on already limited freshwater resources, leading to water scarcity in many parts of the world.

What is Water scarcity? It refers to a situation where the demand for water exceeds the available supply within a particular region or country. It can occur due to physical water scarcity, which is a result of inadequate natural water resources like rivers, lakes, and groundwater, or due to economic water scarcity, where the infrastructure and technology required to access and distribute water are lacking.

Population growth exacerbates water scarcity through several mechanisms:

Increased water consumption: As more people inhabit an area, the overall demand for water rises. This includes not only drinking water but also water for sanitation, hygiene, and daily household needs. As a result, water supplies may be strained, especially in regions with limited freshwater resources.

Agricultural demands: Growing populations require more food production, which in turn necessitates increased irrigation for crops. Agriculture is a major water consumer, and as populations expand, more water is needed to sustain food production. This can further deplete water sources and contribute to water scarcity.

Urbanization: Rapid population growth often leads to increased urbanization, with more people moving to cities. Urban areas require significant water supplies to support their populations, industries, and infrastructure. If urban planning and water management practices are inadequate, this can result in water shortages and scarcity.

Competition for water resources: Increasing population densities can lead to competition for limited water resources among different sectors and user groups. Conflicts may arise between agricultural, industrial, and domestic water users, further exacerbating water scarcity.

In some regions, population growth has outpaced the development of water infrastructure and management systems, leading to water scarcity issues. Additionally, climate change can impact rainfall patterns, leading to droughts or irregular precipitation, further aggravating water scarcity problems.

Efforts to address water scarcity involve a combination of conservation measures, efficient water use, infrastructure development, and sustainable management practices. 

HPBEC

At AKVO, we’re thrilled to be part of the Aloha & Mabuhay Conference, hosted by the Hawaii Philippines Business & Economic Council. This event celebrates global innovations addressing today’s critical challenges, and we’re honored to share the stage with remarkable visionaries:

Kaivicide by R&M Reyes Enterprise, LLC: A revolutionary, non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaner powered by Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), providing safe, sustainable solutions for everyday cleaning.
Aureus by Carvey Ehren Maigue: An award-winning solar biopolymer created from crop waste, designed to harvest UV light for applications in buildings, textiles, and more—even in low-light conditions.
AKVO’s Founder & CEO, Navkaran Singh Bagga, will introduce our atmospheric water generation technology, which produces pure drinking water from air—an innovative solution addressing water scarcity and pollution. We’re excited to expand this transformative technology to Hawaii, following its success in California, as we work toward becoming the world’s first solar water utility provider.

Moderated by Charles Degala, a seasoned professional and AKVO Ohana LLC President, this forum underscores the power of collaboration in driving sustainable progress.

Click the video link below to see the discussion.