The Mediterranean and Middle East, with a combined total population of more than 400 million people, are characterized by strong environmental gradients, climate extremes and diverse economic, social and cultural identities.
It is expected that throughout the 21st century the region will experience substantial adverse climate changes and face major challenges in energy demand and supply, as well as a decreasing availability of potable water. It will be essential to address the undesirable economical and societal consequences and manage them cooperatively. Rethinking energy and water policies and adopting new concepts to respond to these challenges are increasingly recognized as a high priority, both regionally and internationally.
The conference aims to contribute to this effort, and to the development of sustainable strategies and effective decision making to ameliorate the adverse impacts of climate change.
