Subject: Environment & Ecology

According to the United Nations World Water Development Report 2024, over 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water, and by 2025, nearly two-thirds of the global population could be living under water-stressed conditions. The emergence of alternative technologies offers promising solutions to address this growing crisis.

Alternative Technologies for Clean Water Generation

Three Advanced Filtration Technologies

1. Desalination Technology

• Thermal Desalination: Converts seawater to freshwater through evaporation and condensation process.
• Merits:
  • Provides reliable water supply independent of rainfall.
  • Large-scale production capacity (e.g., Chennai's upcoming 400 MLD plant by 2026).
• Demerits:
  • High energy consumption and operational costs.
  • Environmental concerns due to brine discharge.

2. Rainwater Harvesting Systems

• Modern RWH Technologies: Includes rooftop collection, ground catchment, and subsurface dyke systems.
• Merits:
  • Cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
  • Supports groundwater recharge.
  • Government initiative 'Jal Sanchay, Jan Bhagidari' aims to construct one million rainwater harvesting structures.
• Demerits:
  • Dependent on rainfall patterns.
  • Requires regular maintenance and proper filtration.

3. Advanced Filtration Technologies

• Nanotechnology-based Solutions: Including graphene filters and membrane bioreactors.
• Merits:
  • Higher efficiency in removing contaminants.
  • Lower energy consumption compared to conventional methods.
  • Integration with AI/IoT for smart water monitoring.
• Demerits:
  • High initial setup costs.
  • Technical expertise required for maintenance.

The integration of these technologies with traditional water management practices, supported by initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission and Atal Bhujal Yojana, can create a sustainable solution to water scarcity. Success stories like Singapore's NEWater and Israel's drip irrigation demonstrate that technological innovation combined with policy support can effectively address water challenges.