Recent developments in water desalination

The paper presents a global overview of the desalination of seawater. Lessons learned from success stories in the field are critically examined to indicate the potential of these initiatives to be treated as best practice initiatives for their possible applications in Mediterranean countries. Results from some interesting case studies elsewhere and from Libya are briefly given. An example from studies initiated at the Tajoura Engineering Academy indicating solar distillation as a promising alternative for saline water distillation that can partially support needs for fresh water with free energy, simple technology and a clean environment particularly in remote/rural communities are discussed. A plan to ensure the availability of high-quality water in coastal areas is presented to seek venues of possible cooperation amongst potential interested agencies in Mediterranean countries.