E107: How Desalination Could Create New Superpowers | Samo Burja

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Jan 9, 2025

Samo Burja, an expert in geopolitical analysis and technology, discusses the revolutionary potential of desalination. He highlights how advancements could combat global water scarcity, particularly in arid regions. Burja delves into the surprising cost-effectiveness of desalination, suggesting it can produce water as cheaply as 0.3 cents per liter. He envisions transforming deserts into fertile landscapes, enhancing geopolitical stability and climate resilience. The conversation also touches on innovative water management solutions and the importance of attracting global talent in the tech sector.

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INSIGHT

Quiet Revolution in Drinking Water

Drinking water scarcity is a solvable problem, primarily through desalination and wastewater reclamation.
Desalination has quietly revolutionized drinking water access for tens of millions in countries like Israel, Cyprus, Singapore, and Gulf monarchies.

ANECDOTE

Israel's Desalination Innovation

Israel, facing geographical constraints, pioneered reverse osmosis desalination, drastically cutting costs.
This innovation demonstrates how necessity drives technological advancements.

INSIGHT

Desalination Plant Costs

Desalination plants' main cost lies in capital expenditure, not energy consumption.
Optimizing construction costs, not solar power integration, offers the biggest potential for cost reduction.

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Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the advancements in desalination technology, its current applications, and potential to address global water scarcity. They explore the technological and economic feasibility of large-scale desalination projects and their implications on geopolitics and environmental resilience.

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️Live Players

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja

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LINKS:

The Untapped Potential of Desalination: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-untapped-potential-of-desalination

1957, 1978, 2005 Chicken Sizes diagram: https://compote.slate.com/images/4e407854-6360-4172-a85e-d7b8c64fd365.jpg?width=1200

Growth, efficiency, and yield of commercial broilers from 1957, 1978, and 2005: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119385505

Live Players: Can China Power Its Rise?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOei7kZjuZU

Live Players: The Possibility of Human Extinction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEQEMpxLnGA&t=42s

Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/

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X / TWITTER:

@eriktorenberg

@samoburja

@turpentinemedia

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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE:

Desalination technology has advanced significantly, making it a viable solution for water scarcity.
Many countries, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, rely heavily on desalination for their water supply.
The cost of desalination is relatively low, making it accessible for moderately developed countries.
Global hunger is more about distribution than food production; we produce enough food for everyone.
Desalination could transform deserts into green landscapes, enhancing the livability of arid regions.
Geopolitical implications of desalination include potential shifts in power dynamics and national branding.
Innovative projects could lead to significant economic development in countries with large desert areas.
Technological advancements can change the natural geography of the world, making previously uninhabitable areas livable.
Future technologies, such as solar mirrors, could enhance living conditions in extreme climates.
The importance of outdoor spaces and greenery for human well-being cannot be underestimated. Re-engineering urban environments can significantly enhance human well-being.
Water wars are unnecessary; technology can provide water abundance.
Geopolitical tensions often stem from resource management disputes.
China's food security is bolstered by technological advancements in agriculture.
Climate change poses challenges, but industrial civilization can adapt.
Electric vehicles are crucial for China's national security strategy.
Automated farming and construction technologies can revolutionize industries.
Exceptional talent is rare and should be actively recruited.
The U.S. must focus on manufacturing capabilities in the semiconductor race against China.
Innovative immigration strategies could attract top global talent.