Hidden Water, Visible Crises: Iranian Steel Association Warns of Water, Energy, and Migration Challenges in Construction Sector

In a recent press conference covered by Titrsanat News Agency, Abolfazl Kadkhodazadeh, a board member of the Iranian Association of Steel Structure Producers and Exporters, delivered a critical analysis of Iran's water consumption crisis, flawed policies in agriculture and industry, and the complex impacts of Afghan migration.

Kadkhodazadeh pointed out that over 90% of Iran's water usage is in agriculture, while only 7% is for drinking and a mere 3% for industrial use. He emphasized that development in agriculture must be based on modern technology and education. "Many of our university graduates are unaware of how much water is needed to produce something as simple as a T-shirt," he said.

Introducing the concept of "virtual water," Kadkhodazadeh highlighted the hidden water footprint embedded in food and goods, calling it one of the most overlooked issues in Iran's production and consumption cycle. He urged consumers and policymakers to make informed choices based on water capacity and environmental sustainability.

Speaking on steel, Kadkhodazadeh clarified that-contrary to common belief-steel structures require very little water in production, but face major challenges with electricity supply, particularly during Iran's scorching summers. He criticized the short-term mindset in resource management, noting that Iran's ancestors understood sustainable water use centuries ago through systems like qanats.

He called for education on virtual water from childhood, rainwater harvesting at the household level, and greater municipal engagement in water-saving programs. "If we adopt a systems-thinking approach to crisis management," he said, "we can move toward long-term, sustainable solutions."

Kadkhodazadeh concluded by stating that overcoming Iran's resource crisis requires redefined development policies, use of water-efficient materials, environmental education, recycling systems-particularly for water-and a fundamental shift in national planning strategies.

Read the original article in Persian:
https://titrsanat.ir/?p=11928

Titrsanat News Agency
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Press Contact: Fatemeh Bagheri

Titrsanat News Agency is an independent Iranian media outlet focused on monitoring and analyzing the industrial, mining, steel, and petrochemical sectors. With a professional and specialized editorial approach, Titrsanat offers continuous coverage and deep evaluations of the economic and industrial landscape. The platform is committed to ethical journalism and national interests while serving as a knowledge-driven reference for both private and governmental decision-makers in Iran.

This release was published on openPR.