"Moment of Zen"

Samo Burja on the Technology That Can Create New Superpowers

25 snips
Feb 8, 2025
Guest
Samo Burja
Samo Burja, an expert on desalination technology, dives into how innovations in this field could revolutionize water resources and reshape geopolitical landscapes. He discusses the feasibility of creating green spaces in arid regions, like Saudi Arabia, through affordable desalination. Burja explores its potential to boost national development and climate resilience while addressing ecological implications. The conversation also highlights the interplay between water abundance and global resource conflicts, painting a compelling picture of a transformed future.
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INSIGHT

Drinking Water Abundance

  • Drinking water scarcity is a misconception, as desalination technology has made it readily available.
  • The only reason desalination isn't widespread is that wastewater reclamation is even cheaper.
INSIGHT

Desalination Technology

  • Reverse osmosis desalination forces saltwater through a membrane, separating salt and producing drinkable water.
  • The brine byproduct is less saline than the Dead Sea and can be safely returned to the ocean.
INSIGHT

Desalination Costs

  • The main cost of desalination plants is capital expenditure, not energy consumption.
  • Solar power doesn't significantly reduce costs; cheaper tunnels and better membranes would.
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