Water is the foundation of life. It sustains ecosystems, supports human health, drives economies, and ensures food security. Yet, water resources are under increasing pressure due to climate change, pollution, and overuse, and securing sustainable water access has never been more urgent.
World Water Day, celebrated annually on March 22, highlights the global water crisis and promotes actions to ensure safe, sustainable water for all. This year’s theme, “Glacier Preservation,” highlights the importance of these frozen reservoirs in regulating global water cycles and as unique ecosystems. Even the smallest inhabitants of glacial environments, such as microbes, play a role in this balance, giving scientists insights into climate resilience, innovative biomaterials, and the broader impacts of glacial melt.
The ongoing loss of glaciers intensifies water security risks, affecting millions worldwide. Even in arid regions like Saudi Arabia, their disappearance disrupts global climate patterns, potentially impacting water availability.
Join us in celebrating this vital resource and advocating for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for all.
Seminar: Nature’s Sunscreen – Antarctic Microbes, Glacier Retreat, and Survival in a Warming World
March 23, 2025
Auditorium Building 20, Level 2, Room 2011 (Rehearsal Room)
2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Antarctica’s extreme environment, with its intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation and freezing temperatures, presents significant survival challenges for microorganisms. Some Antarctic microbes have adapted by producing photoprotective carotenoids, pigments that help shield against UV radiation. These natural compounds are now gaining interest in the skincare industry as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic UV filters.
In this seminar organized by Students for Sustainability in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability and the Office of Student Life, Prof. Alexandre Rosado will present his team’s research on carotenoid production in Actinomycetota strains from Antarctic Peninsula soils, and their role in enhancing UV resistance. His findings suggest that carotenoids from specific Arthrobacter sp. strains could significantly improve UV-B protection, highlighting their potential applications in dermo-cosmetics. This research highlights glaciers not only as vital freshwater reserves but also as unique ecosystems harboring microbial life with the potential for groundbreaking innovations.
Blue Waves, Litter-Free Shorelines
March 20, 2025
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
King Abdullah Monument Sea Platform
This year’s theme, “Glacier Preservation,” highlights the critical role of glaciers in maintaining freshwater reserves and regulating the global climate. While glaciers and oceans may not seem related, they are deeply interconnected through the global water cycle. Protecting one helps sustain the other.
To reinforce this connection, the Health, Safety, and Environment Department (HSE) invites the community to “Blue Waves, Litter-Free Shorelines,” a hands-on event addressing marine plastic pollution and its broader impact on global water systems.
Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to ocean health, harming marine life and disrupting ecosystems. By reducing plastic waste, we not only safeguard marine biodiversity but also contribute to the health of freshwater systems and climate resilience.
This event will feature awareness discussions on the impact of plastic pollution and a community clean-up activity along the shoreline. Join us in taking action for a cleaner and healthier planet!
Water Desalination Plant Open House
March 20, 2025
9:15 a.m.
KAUST Water Desalination Plant
Register now to secure your spot
KAUST owns and operates its own Seawater Desalination Plant, a state-of-the-art facility providing a reliable supply of potable water to the KAUST community. With a production capacity of 40,000 m3/day, the plant utilizes sea water reverse osmosis (SWRO) technology to ensure high-quality drinking water. Designed for efficiency and sustainability, the facility plays a crucial role in supporting KAUST’s water needs while incorporating energy-saving measures and environmental best practices. The Campus and Community team, in collaboration with the Students for Sustainability, is hosting a guided tour for the KAUST community to explore the plant’s operations and its role in securing an efficient water supply system.
This exclusive tour will provide an in-depth look at the desalination process, covering each stage—from seawater intake and pre-treatment to high-pressure pumping, membrane filtration, and final product storage. Participants will gain insights into the technological advancements that enable KAUST to produce potable water efficiently, minimize environmental impact, and ensure sustainable water management in an arid environment.
Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Open House
March 23, 2025
9:15 a.m.
KAUST Wastewater Treatment Plant
Register now to join the tour!
Join us for an exclusive tour of KAUST’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), organized by the Campus and Community team and Students for Sustainability. Discover how this state-of-the-art plant utilizes membrane bioreactors to treat 11,500 m³ of wastewater daily, producing treated sewage effluents that meet World Health Organization (WHO) and international standards.
This tour will provide an in-depth look at the wastewater treatment process, showcasing sample stages of filtration, biological treatment, and final purification. Attendees will learn how these advanced technologies help ensure safe water reuse, reduce environmental impact, and support biodiversity. The visit will also highlight the critical role of wastewater management in maintaining the global water cycle and enhancing human livelihoods, particularly in water-scarce regions.
Mangrove Nursery Launch: Coastal Restoration for Climate Resilience
March 22 2025
3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Mangrove Nursery Middle School (Entrance from the Flag Pavilion)
Sign up here to participate
Mangroves play a critical role in mitigating climate change, acting as natural carbon sinks that absorb and store carbon, they help slow global warming and protect coastal ecosystems. As climate change accelerates glacier melt, rising sea levels and extreme weather events pose significant threats to freshwater resources and biodiversity. By preserving and expanding mangrove forests, we can strengthen coastal resilience, safeguard marine habitats, and support global water cycles.
The KAUST School (TKS) and the Health, Safety, and Environment Department (HSE) are launching the Mangrove Nursery Collaboration, an initiative dedicated to environmental education and coastal restoration. The nursery will serve as a living laboratory, where students and researchers can study mangrove growth, climate resilience, and conservation strategies. The project also aligns with KAUST’s broader sustainability efforts, enhancing research and engagement opportunities in nature-based solutions.
Movie Night: The Last Glaciers
March 19, 2025
9:00 p.m.
Discovery Square
Don’t miss this thought-provoking film!
Join the Students for Sustainability for a special screening of The Last Glaciers, a powerful documentary that explores the impact of climate change on the world’s glaciers. This visually stunning film takes viewers on a journey to some of the most remote glacier regions, highlighting the urgency of preserving these natural reservoirs.
Water Quiz Night
March 20, 2025
7:00 p.m.
Building 18, Level 3, Stage area
Register your team of 5-6 people now and be part of the celebration!
The IWA- KAUST Students Chapter invites you to Water Quiz Night, an exciting and interactive event to test your knowledge about water sustainability, global challenges, and, scientific innovations, and more!
This fun and engaging evening will bring together students who are passionate about water-related challenges. Whether you’re a water expert or just curious, this is a great opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with peers, and celebrate this vital resource!
Stay tuned for additional World Water Day 2025 activities, including community engagement opportunities.