Sustainable Water Solutions: The Environmental Impacts and Efficacy of Offshore Solar Desalination

Abstract

With the rising global population, rapid urbanization, and the escalating effects of climate change, the demand for freshwater is surging beyond the capacity of conventional water resources. Desalination, a widely recognized solution, faces significant challenges due to its high energy demands and adverse environmental impacts, particularly on marine ecosystems through greenhouse gas emissions. Solar-powered desalination offers a more sustainable alternative by utilizing renewable energy, yet its integration with offshore systems remains underexplored. This study addresses the critical gaps in the literature by conducting a comprehensive review of the operational efficiency and environmental impacts of offshore solar desalination systems. The research evaluates current desalination technologies, contrasting conventional methods with solar-powered alternatives to highlight sustainability benefits. It delves into the potential of solar energy in offshore desalination, assessing various solar technologies and their applicability in marine environments. The environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions, marine biodiversity, and brine disposal, are quantified to propose strategies for minimizing ecological footprints. Furthermore, the study assesses the operational efficacy of offshore solar desalination systems, focusing on water production capacity, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Key challenges and opportunities in deploying and scaling these systems are identified, with a particular focus on technological, economic, and regulatory factors. Based on these findings, actionable recommendations are proposed to enhance the sustainability, efficiency, and scalability of offshore solar desalination. This research underscores the potential of offshore solar desalination as a viable solution to global water scarcity, advocating for further studies and policy support to optimize and implement these systems on a larger scale.