Green Hydrogen Ambitions, Global Water Management Challenges
By Eliza Galeana | Junior Journalist & Industry Analyst -
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 07:00
Specialists highlighted Mexico's pivotal role in green hydrogen production for the energy transition. Meanwhile, UN-Water and UNEP published a series of reports tracking progress on freshwater management in member states.
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Mexico's Role in Green Hydrogen: Opportunities and Challenges
Mexico is emerging as a key player in green hydrogen (H2V) production, with international support from entities like Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and European companies DH2 Energy and HDF Energy driving energy transition projects. Despite significant potential, challenges such as the lack of a regulatory framework and investment incentives remain, but experts highlight the opportunity for economic growth and job creation. By 2050, H2V could attract up to US$60 billion in investments and create 3 million jobs, positioning Mexico as a global leader in decarbonization efforts.
UN Highlights Global Challenges in Water Quality, Management
UN-Water and UNEP's reports highlight global challenges in achieving SDG 6, "Clean Water and Sanitation for All," noting that half of the countries studied face degraded freshwater ecosystems, shrinking water bodies, and declining river flow. Reports emphasize the urgent need for coordinated water resource management, as many countries, including Mexico, struggle with insufficient governance, pollution, and water scarcity exacerbated by climate change. Despite political commitments, the world is unlikely to achieve sustainable water management by 2030, with the current trajectory pushing the goal to 2049.
AI Integration Key to Improving Water Management: Aqua Tech
Aqua Tech specialists highlighted the potential of AI to improve water management and reduce flood damage in Mexico. AI technologies can enhance early warning systems and emergency responses, though challenges such as insufficient infrastructure and limited investment in technology persist. Innovations like real-time data from microbots and predictive analytics from AI models are leading the way. The upcoming Aquatech Mexico event will feature global advancements in water management, including solutions for wastewater treatment and climate change adaptation.
W.K. Kellogg Foundation, UNDP Partner With Rural Communities
The W.K. Kellogg Foundation and UNDP partnered with 40 rural communities in southeastern Mexico to promote sustainability, autonomy, and resource management in areas like food production and community-based tourism. The initiative will provide access to savings, credit tools, and technical innovations, focusing on conserving agrobiodiversity, empowering women, and involving young people in sustainable practices. Over 18 months, the project will support communities in the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas, aiming to address climate challenges and foster knowledge-sharing through collaborative networks and educational programs.
ANPACT Leads Reforestation Effort in the State of Mexico
The National Association of Bus, Truck, and Tractor Truck Producers (ANPACT) and 15 member companies conducted their third annual reforestation initiative in the state of Mexico, aiming to enhance environmental conservation and social impact. Over 80 volunteers planted 600 oyamel trees with technical support from Naturalia, A.C., while also participating in a "Walk for a Clean Forest" to remove litter and learn about forest conservation. This effort aligns with the member companies' ESG criteria, contributing to ecosystem restoration, climate change mitigation, and sustainable management of natural resources.









