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Desalination for agricultural development: Addressing opportunities and challenges in the context of climate change and the global agricultural commodity market

Expert consultation workshop report

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Tunis, Tunisia ;

Pages 110 p.

Author Maki, A.; Pedrero, F.; Hafsi, M.; Guerber, F.;

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Book (stand-alone)

ISBN 978-92-5-139689-6

To cite or share https://doi.org/10.4060/cd4781en

Synopsis (short abstract) The integration of desalination into agricultural practices presents a transformative opportunity to address water scarcity in a rapidly changing climate. This guidance document has highlighted the technological advances, agronomic opportunities, economic challenges, environmental impacts and social considerations associated with doing so.Technologically, desalination has evolved significantly, offering viable solutions for both seawater and brackish water, with reverse osmosis leading the way. However, the high costs and energy requirements of desalination remain significant challenges, particularly for widespread agricultural use. Innovations in energy efficiency, brine management, and the potential for resource recovery from brine are promising developments that could lower costs and environmental impacts in the future.Agronomically, desalinated water can support high-value crops, and it has the potential to support food security in regions facing severe water scarcity. However, the unique chemical composition of desalinated water, including low nutrient content and the potential for phytotoxicity, necessitates careful management to avoid adverse effects on soil health and crop productivity. Blending desalinated water with water from other sources and adjusting fertilization practices can mitigate some of these concerns.Economically, the viability of desalination for agriculture depends on the value of the crops being irrigated, the proximity of desalination plants to agricultural lands, and the availability of financing mechanisms. The high cost of desalinated water requires targeted subsidies, public–private partnerships, and innovative financing models to make it accessible and sustainable for farmers, particularly in developing regions. Further research is needed to analyse the costs and benefits of desalination for “strategic” crops in water-scarce areas – such as cereals and animal fodder – which are intended to contribute to food security.Environmental sustainability is a critical consideration, with desalination’s energy intensity and brine disposal posing significant risks. The shift towards renewable energy sources and the development of brine valorization strategies are essential steps towards reducing the environmental footprint of desalination. Moreover, the potential for desalination to contribute to aquifer recharge and prevent overextraction of freshwater resources offers additional environmental benefits.

Last updated 30/04/2025

Cite this content as:

Maki, A., Pedrero, F., Hafsi, M. & Guerber, F. 2025. Desalination for agriculture development: Addressing opportunities and challenges in the context of changing climate and the global agricultural commodity market – Expert consultation workshop report. Tunis, FAO.

https://doi.org/10.4060/cd4781en

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