LocationsZliten's groundwater phenomenon: an opportunity for sustainable solutions
August 27, 2024
Buildings and farms affected of high groundwater levels
In a time where climate change is reshaping our environment, the reality that 'change is the only constant' is more evident than ever. Libya’s recent environmental challenges—Storm Daniel in Derna and the rising groundwater levels in Zliten and Bi'r al Ghanam—have severely impacted infrastructure and daily life.
Yet, within every challenge lies opportunities for innovation, learning, and growth. As we navigate these shifts, we are committed to turning immediate challenges into long-term resilience and sustainable development pathways.
Tapping into Technology: From Data to Decision-Making
As the Head of Experimentation and an enthusiastic data scientist at UNDP Accelerator Lab Libya, I view obstacles as a catalyst for progress. Through our initiatives, we are raising awareness and adopting advanced technologies and methods for resilience. In the case of Zliten's rising groundwater levels, leveraging advanced technologies can play a crucial role in understanding and managing such a phenomenon.
Remote sensing, for instance, can provide a bird's-eye view of affected areas, and machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data (satellite imagery and social media) to help with emergency response, detect insights, and predict future trends. By combining remote sensing, IoT (Internet of Things), and predictive analytics and modelling, we can develop more substantial and strategic management interventions. Enabling us to anticipate and mitigate potential crises (early warning systems) before they escalate.
Moreover, using the data collected from IoT underground sensors along with mathematical modeling to simulate underground layers can help urban planners design resilient infrastructure that works with, rather than against, the changes in the geographical landscape. These data-driven technological solutions not only address emergency response but also build longer-term alternatives, turning data into actionable insights and proactive solutions.
Homes in the area are suffering from foundation failure due to this crisis
Zliten's Story: A valuable resource
Reimagining Zliten’s groundwater as a valuable resource rather than a problem is key to sustainable development. By involving local communities and stakeholders in the design and implementation of natural filtration systems and innovative farming practices, we can ensure these solutions are not only effective but also embraced by those they benefit, opening up a wide range of innovative ideas that can renew urban spaces and boost local economies.
Given Libya's widespread water scarcity, it’s natural to explore options for utilizing the rising groundwater rather than simply dumping this precious resource into the sea. Although scientific reports indicate that the water is contaminated and unsuitable for drinking, it holds significant potential for agricultural use.
Instead of relying solely on conventional advanced water treatment methods, which require substantial investments and lengthy implementation periods, a sustainable alternative is to reclaim the contaminated water through natural filtration systems, like bioswales and constructed wetlands. These nature-based approaches can filter out sediment and help break down harmful pollutants, including metal, bacteria, nitrogen, and phosphorus, transforming stagnant water into a life-giving resource for agriculture.
By adopting new farming practices previously uncommon in the region, such as unconventional crop cultivation and innovative irrigation techniques, can not only tackle food security but also create income opportunities for local families. This approach includes the developing and construction of new natural filtration systems, which would introduce new professions and boost the local economy.
Transformation Starts with Awareness and Dialogue
This blog isn’t just a story about Zliten — it’s a signal to act and engage. The first step begins with understanding the depth of the issue and raising awareness on the potential. Whether you are a scientist, a local leader, or a concerned citizen, your insights and efforts can contribute to turning the tide on environmental challenges.
Let's use our collective knowledge and creativity in workshops and engaging dialogues to not only adapt to change but thrive on it. Working together, we can turn Zliten's challenges into opportunities for aspiration, showcasing humanity's capacity to innovate and create a more sustainable future.