The National Center for Water Efficiency and Conservation (Ma3i) announced the launch of its new awareness campaign, “The First Step,” which is a key component of its national strategy aimed at enhancing the sustainability of water resources in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This initiative aims to encourage all segments of society, as well as government and private entities, to actively participate in adopting positive behaviors that ensure the preservation of water resources for future generations.
Linking daily behavior to sustainability concepts
The Water Center explained that the philosophy behind the “First Step” campaign is to simplify water conservation concepts and directly link them to individuals’ daily behavioral patterns. Instead of focusing solely on complex technical solutions, the campaign aims to instill the conviction that every simple step an individual takes to reduce water waste makes a significant difference at the national level. The campaign uses intensive and targeted communication messages to highlight the importance of water as a fundamental element of development, thereby encouraging practical and applicable steps to improve water consumption efficiency.
National context and the importance of water security
This campaign is of paramount strategic importance given the geographical and climatic nature of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which lies within an arid and water-scarce region. The Kingdom relies heavily on desalination and groundwater to meet the growing needs of its population and the industrial and agricultural sectors. Hence, the National Water Center (Ma'i) plays a leading role in efforts to reduce water loss and increase water use efficiency. Conservation is the least costly and most sustainable option compared to increased production, thus contributing to lower operational and environmental costs associated with water production.
Alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The “First Step” campaign does not operate in isolation from the Kingdom’s broader national objectives; rather, it aligns perfectly with the goals of Vision 2030, particularly those related to the Quality of Life Program and the sustainability of natural resources. The Vision aims to build a vibrant society that understands its responsibilities towards its environment, recognizing water security as a fundamental pillar of national and economic security. The campaign works to unify the efforts of the public and private sectors to adopt water-saving technologies and implement technical regulations that ensure efficient water consumption in buildings and facilities.
In conclusion, the center called on everyone to consider this campaign a starting point for real and sustainable change, stressing that “the first step” begins with the individual, but its impact extends to the entire nation, achieving water savings that support the comprehensive development process.
