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Israel is situated in a water-scarce area, on the edge of a "desert belt" (the geographical area between the Negev and Judean deserts and the more humid Mediterranean region).
Israel's constant and prolonged need to cope with this lack of water has necessitated increased efficiency and led to the development of technologies, professionalism and excellence which have positioned Israel's water industry at the forefront of technology, serving as a global example of water management, utilization, reuse and development.
Israel's successful water policies have promoted and implemented a significant desalination program which is changing and guiding the water economy into a new era, incorporating innovative management approaches, creative thinking and advanced technologies.
Desalinated water currently constitutes some 40% of all water provided to cities and homes in Israel. In 2014 this figure will increase to over 70% of water used in cities and homes.
Alongside the dramatic growth in the production of desalinated water it provides, the Israel Water Authority continues to develop and maintain the infrastructure needed to collect and purify wastewater and treat it for reuse.
Israel is one of the five leading countries in the world in the collection and treatment of wastewater (94% of Israel's wastewater is collected into the sewage system) and is the world leader in the use of reclaimed and reused water for agricultural irrigation (more than 80%).
Israel's achievements in the areas of desalination, reuse and water conservation have brought about a real revolution toward freedom from dependency on the benevolence of the heavens.
Within a few years, more than 50% of all water utilized in Israel will be manufactured water.
The manufacture of additional water through desalination and re-use allows Israel to extract less water from its natural water sources, thus facilitating their rehabilitation after years of depletion. Israel has created a foundation for the integrated management of all its water sources (natural and artificial), making it possible to reliably provide water for all purposes and to all consumers, while preserving its natural water sources.
The Governmental Authority for Water and Sewage is leading these revolutionary changes through its management, operation and development of the Israeli water sector. Conservation and rehabilitation of natural water sources, development of new water sources and monitoring of water consumers and producers will allow the Authority to provide high quality, reliable and efficient water and sewage services, while increasing the sustainable well being of Israel's residents.
Uri Schor
Spokesman, Israel Water Authority
