Based on the data collected from various sources, Lake Urmia has reached a critical condition. This lake, being the largest saltwater lake in Iran. It located in northwest Iran, was once known as the world’s second-largest Salt Lake. Lake Urmia is facing serious environmental challenges.
The situation of the lake has deteriorated to the point where it appears inevitable that it will dry up completely. Researchers have warned that this could lead to a significant environmental crisis.
As the water volume of the lake decreases, some environmental experts have described it as transforming into a “Playa,” a dry lake with a salt crust. If appropriate measures are not taken to protect this lake, it could potentially turn into a desert.
Furthermore, in the past year, the water volume of Lake Urmia has reduced by 0.97 billion cubic meters. This is due to the evaporation of water from the lake’s surface and the increasing intensity of drought. This is a significant environmental issue that needs immediate attention and intervention.
Iran is facing a severe escalation of water scarcity due to factors such as population growth, increased self-sufficiency in food production, urbanization, energy demand, and overall socio-economic development. This issue is exacerbated by the impacts of climate change and significant degradation of water quality. Urmia Lake Basin, a large hypersaline lake, is under serious ecological stress with considerable effects on biodiversity and socio-economic conditions. Despite government efforts since 2013 to restore the lake, its condition remains critical and needs additional support. (more info)
Foreign countries can provide considerable assistance in efforts to save Lake Urmia in Iran. Here are some ways in which they can contribute:
Financial Aid: Countries can make significant financial contributions to support conservation and restoration efforts. An example of this is the generous contribution of US$ 1 million by the Government of Japan to support the efforts through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Iran. This contribution is part of a continuous effort, marking Japan’s seventh contribution to UNDP Iran.
Technical Assistance: Foreign countries can provide technical expertise and support in areas such as water management and biodiversity conservation. For instance, the Government of Japan’s contribution is being implemented as a component of UNDP’s ongoing Conservation of Iranian Wetlands Project, a joint project between Iran’s Department of Environment and UNDP. The project has already seen notable achievements such as the reduction of water use by 25%, an increase in irrigation efficiency by nearly 42%, and the generation of job opportunities for local experts.
Capacity Building and Training: Foreign countries can help by offering training programs to local communities. This is demonstrated in the UNDP project, which has trained 12,000 local communities and farmers around the Lake Urmia basin, created jobs for local experts and women, and collaborated with local companies and NGOs.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: Foreign countries can introduce sustainable agriculture techniques and water-saving methods for irrigation, contributing to the overall sustainability of Lake Urmia and its adjacent wetlands.
Foreign countries can use their diplomatic and political influence to advocate for more global support for the restoration of Lake Urmia. Despite Iran’s commitment to reviving the lake and welcoming any international help, the total foreign aid has not surpassed $20 million so far.
