CLIMATE ACTION CONVERSATION SERIES — EPISODE 4
The Hidden Cost of Water Waste
Water scarcity is no longer a future threat — it's a present-day global crisis affecting millions. Driven by climate change, mismanagement, and overconsumption, the issue of water waste demands urgent attention. But there is hope — and actionable solutions. Join us for an eye-opening and solutions-driven webinar that brings together leading experts in sustainability, water resource management, and environmental policy. Together, we’ll unpack the hidden costs of water waste, examine its real-world impacts, and explore the steps we can all take to preserve and protect this essential resource. Hear from internationally recognized experts sharing evidence-based strategies, successful case studies, and innovative approaches to water conservation. Participate in live Q&A sessions and engage in meaningful discussions with panelists to deepen your understanding and explore collaborative paths forward. Don’t miss this important conversation — register now to secure your spot.

What to Expect?
In this powerful episode of the Climate Action Conversation Series, expect an engaging and informative dialogue that goes beyond surface-level awareness to deliver real insight into the global water crisis. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of water waste, including its links to climate change, food security, and social inequality. The session will feature dynamic presentations from global experts, interactive Q&A opportunities, and practical, science-backed water-saving tips for individuals and communities. Whether you're an environmental advocate, policy professional, educator, or concerned citizen, you'll leave equipped with actionable strategies to make a measurable impact in your home, workplace, and broader community.
Speakers:

Tarteel Jaafar Mohamed Salih
Academic Advisor, Abu Dhabi University
Tarteel is an Academic Advisor at Abu Dhabi University and a master's student in Water Resources Engineering. Her research focuses on sustainable solutions for biohydrogen production and water conservation using microalgae. She is passionate about bridging science and community awareness, especially in the context of environmental sustainability. Through her work and studies, she aims to contribute to practical change in how we manage and value our natural resources.

Dr. Bapon Fakhruddin
Water Sector Lead, Green Climate Fund (GCF)
Dr. Bapon Fakhruddin is a leading expert on climate resilience. He has over 23 years of experience advising governments and organizations around the world on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. As a hydrometeorologist, his specialty is in climate risk assessment, early warning systems, community resilience, and water security. Dr. Fakhruddin is currently leading the Water Sector at the Green Climate Fund. He oversees climate investments in vulnerable countries around the world to support water security and early warning project origination. He serves on international expert committees, Chair, Board Member and Professor such as the International Science Council, CODATA, Earth GEO, WMO, and lends his expertise to advance national resilience agendas for governments in LDCs and SIDS.

Alicia Dauth
Water Assurance Technical Lead, Water Security Collective
Alicia is passionate about advancing global water stewardship through innovation, education, and advocacy. As an experienced environmental professional, she strives to influence how we manage water resources, ensuring sustainable and equitable practices for future generations. By leveraging her expertise in water certifications, water strategies, and public speaking, she aims to inspire organizations and individuals to adopt impactful solutions for water security and resilience.

Ojonugwa Yahaya
Founder, Oaklight Care Gateway Foundation
Ojonugwa Yahaya is a passionate WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) advocate deeply committed to addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable water conservation practices in underserved communities. Drawing from her personal experiences of growing up in Ajokpachi Odo, a village in Kogi State, Nigeria where access to clean water was a daily struggle, Ojonugwa has transformed early life challenges into a driving force for change. Her work centers on creating awareness about the realities of water scarcity and the importance of responsible water use, especially in vulnerable communities and IDP camps. Through storytelling, grassroots engagement, and educational outreach, she leads conversations that empower individuals, especially women and children, to see water not just as a resource, but as a right and a shared responsibility. Ojonugwa has contributed to numerous community-based initiatives in collaboration with organizations like WaterAid Nigeria, UNICEF Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, and other WASH-focused bodies. Her advocacy promotes behavioral change, community resilience, and the sustainable management of water resources, aligning closely with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

Pascal Vuichard
Corporate Sustainability Consultant, Ernst Basler & Partner
Pascal Vuichard is a Corporate Sustainability Consultant at Ernst Basler & Partner in Switzerland, as well as a Senior Lecturer and Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of St.Gallen and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. His work centers on driving the transition from conventional to sustainable business practices - unlocking new opportunities while mitigating environmental, economic, and social risks. His research explores the social acceptance of sustainability initiatives and the innovation of business models, with a particular focus on strategies to accelerate and optimize the energy transition. He actively integrates proven tools and methodologies for a sustainable transformation into both his teaching and consulting engagements.

Khadeeja Balkhi
Khadeeja Balkhi is a globally recognized Sustainability & ESG leader, with over two decades of high-impact in public, private and non-profit. She delivers strategic insights and masterclasses, enhancing energy productivity, renewables integration, DEIB, governance and beyond. She has developed sustainability strategies for governments like Qatar's Public Works Authority (Ashghal)-and crafted risk mitigation models with the F&B industry, e.g. Coca-Cola. Her influence spans international markets, impacting organizations such as GRO, National Foods, OMV. An award-winning journalist, she has published 400+ articles, covers, book chapters, including Forbes, Newsweek, Arab News, The National, Saudi Gazette, Fair Planet, Women's eNews & others. Trusted C-suit advisor on Strategy, inclusion, succession.
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