Jordan’s water scarcity is primarily driven by overextraction of groundwater resources, inadequate rainfall, and inefficient water management practices. The country’s renewable water resources are estimated at less than 100 cubic meters per capita annually, far below the water poverty threshold of 500 cubic meters per capita. The overuse of aquifers, such as the Disi and Azraq aquifers, has led to water quality degradation and declining availability (Al-Zu’bi, 2007).

The issue is exacerbated by climate change, which has resulted in erratic rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and prolonged droughts (Al-Karablieh et al., 2016). Additionally, the rapid population increase, including the influx of refugees, has intensified demand for water resources. Agricultural activities, which consume approximately 50% of the country’s water supply, often rely on inefficient irrigation methods that contribute to groundwater depletion. If left unaddressed, the crisis will continue to threaten Jordan’s water security, agriculture, and public health.

Has this problem been acknowledged in the past?

The Jordanian government, NGOs, and international organizations have long recognized the country’s water crisis and have initiated various efforts to address it. The Ministry of Water and Irrigation has implemented national water strategies aimed at improving water efficiency and reducing losses. International donors, such as USAID and the European Union, have funded water infrastructure projects, including wastewater treatment and desalination initiatives. NGOs like Mercy Corps and the Royal Scientific Society have conducted public awareness campaigns and research on water sustainability. Despite these efforts, challenges remain in implementation, enforcement, and securing long-term solutions.

Can this challenge be solved using space technologies and data?

• Remote Sensing for Water Resource Monitoring: Using satellite imagery from programs like NASA’s Landsat and the European Space Agency’s Sentinel missions to track groundwater depletion, surface water changes, and vegetation health.
• Climate and Precipitation Data Analysis: Leveraging satellite data from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission to monitor rainfall patterns and drought trends.
• GIS and Hydrological Modeling: Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite-based hydrological models to improve water distribution planning and predict future water needs.
• Desertification and Land Use Change Monitoring: Utilizing Earth observation data to track land degradation and inform sustainable land management policies.
• Early Warning Systems: Implementing satellite-driven drought forecasting and flood prediction systems to enhance water resource planning.

Expected timeframe to develop a solution

• Short-Term (6 months - 2 years): Public awareness campaigns and policy enforcement. Implementation of water conservation measures. Initial adoption of remote sensing for monitoring groundwater levels.
• Medium-Term (3 - 5 years): Expansion of wastewater treatment and desalination projects. Adoption of advanced hydrological modeling and GIS-based water planning. Strengthening regional water cooperation initiatives.
• Long-Term (6 - 10 years): Full-scale integration of satellite-driven early warning systems. Sustainable groundwater management frameworks fully operational. Significant reduction in water stress and improved agricultural resilience. 

By integrating space technologies with local knowledge and international collaboration, Jordan can move towards a more sustainable and resilient water future.

Potential consequences if no action happens

• Further depletion of groundwater resources, leading to increased water insecurity.
• Salinization and degradation of remaining water sources.
• Agricultural decline, threatening food security and rural economies.
• Increased risk of conflicts over water resources, both domestically and regionally.

What are additional physical requirements for a solution?

• Infrastructure Development: Construction of desalination plants, wastewater treatment facilities, and advanced irrigation systems.
• Monitoring Equipment: Installation of groundwater monitoring wells, remote sensing stations, and real-time water quality sensors.
• Technology Implementation: Deployment of GIS and hydrological modeling software, satellite data integration systems, and climate adaptation tools.
• Water Storage and Distribution: Expansion of water reservoirs, rainwater harvesting systems, and efficient urban water distribution networks.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Utilization of solar and wind energy to power desalination and water treatment processes.
• Knowledge and Resources Available: Expertise in soil fertility, agricultural systems, and water resource management. Research on sustainable agriculture and food security. Collaboration with academic institutions and environmental organizations. Access to GIS and remote sensing tools for environmental monitoring.
• Knowledge and Resources Lacking: Advanced hydrological modeling tools and expertise. Funding for large-scale infrastructure projects such as desalination plants. Policy implementation support and governance frameworks. Specialized training in satellite data interpretation for water resource management. Access to high-resolution satellite imagery and real-time climate data.