CHICAGO – Crafting a resolution calling on global leaders to recognize and address a looming water shortage in Gaza was the major joint concern addressed at the recent Malta-III Conference in Istanbul, Turkey.
Scientists from 13 Middle Eastern countries and Israel gathered in December to raise awareness of critically needed water reclamation projects in Gaza, among other important environmental issues. The record 87 participants unanimously passed a resolution calling on governments to look beyond present conflicts and address issues that ultimately will affect the health of everyone in the region. The Gaza resolution was sent to Middle East envoy Tony Blair, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, for further action.
The conference’s intensive workshops produced initiatives regarding air and water quality, education and green chemistry, alternative energy sources, medicinal and natural products and nanotechnology. Plans were made to launch a workshop in Turkey this summer on nanotechnology for post-doctorate and graduate students from the Middle East. Nine Middle Eastern representatives also committed to join the organizing committee for the 2009 Malta-IV Conference, the first time scientists from the region will help plan the next event.
Founded in 2003 by Dr. Zafra Lerman, professor of science and public policy at Columbia College Chicago,
The Malta-III conference was co-sponsored by UNESCO, the American Chemical Society, the Royal Society of Chemistry (England), and others.
Non-media inquiries should be directed to Jeffrey Wade at Columbia College Chicago: jwade@colum.edu or 312.344.7544.
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