Aramco's executive vice president of technology and innovation Ahmad Al Khowaiter yesterday called for greater collaboration to drive innovative solutions in water conservation and energy sustainability.
Speaking at the Global Water, Energy and Climate Change Congress in Bahrain, Mr Al Khowaiter emphasised the critical role of technology in overcoming sustainability challenges.
“Meeting these global challenges requires a level of collaboration that is faster, deeper, and more inclusive than ever before,” he said. “For me, collaboration is the catalyst for innovation – and innovation is the driver of global transformation.”
He stressed that a “cross-pollination of ideas” is essential for gaining fresh perspectives and scaling up solutions. By working together as “one team,” he added, it is possible to “accelerate the transformation needed to secure a more sustainable water and energy future for all.”
Mr Al Khowaiter also highlighted the need for a realistic energy transition.
“Even with trillions of dollars invested in alternatives, we cannot simply abandon the oil and gas infrastructure that continues to power modern civilisation,” he said.
He pointed to technologies such as carbon capture, direct air capture, and AI-driven efficiency improvements as essential for achieving meaningful emissions reductions.
He also outlined Aramco’s commitment to water conservation, noting that the company has diversified its water supply, increased wastewater reuse, and minimised water loss.
“I am proud to share that last year alone, we reduced our freshwater consumption in Aramco by nearly 8pc,” he added.
The three-day congress, running until tomorrow, is held under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa.
It has brought together more than 5,000 international policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of water security, sustainable energy, and climate resilience.
This year’s event is organised in collaboration with Aramco, the UN Environment Programme, and Oil and Environment Ministry.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))