Entrepreneurs in Libya turn to aquaponics to fight worsening water scarcity

Libya, one of the world's driest countries, is grappling with a severe water crisis that threatens its future. With agriculture consuming over 80% of its freshwater resources and demand expected to surge by 40% by 2030, the nation faces critical challenges. In the Nafusa Mountains, residents rely on expensive water deliveries, forcing many families to abandon their homes for coastal cities. However, amidst these difficulties, innovative entrepreneurs are pioneering sustainable solutions. In Janzur, a Libyan startup is utilising aquaponics—a system combining fish farming with soilless vegetable cultivation—to address water scarcity. This closed-loop method recycles water between fish tanks and plant beds, reducing water usage by 90% compared to traditional farming. As Libya struggles with years of political instability and inadequate water infrastructure, such sustainable farming initiatives could prove crucial in combating the country's projected increase in water stress levels by 2040. Al Jazeera's Malik Traina reports from Janzur in western Libya. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.io/AJEMobile #Libya #LibyaWaterCrisis #LibyaWaterShortages #Drought #Aquaponics #LibyaFarming