The Arab region is one of the world's most arid regions. They are subject to significant changes in rainfall rates from year to year, which is clearly reflected in the scarcity of water resources. Scientific research confirmed that the whole region will be exposed to severe climate changes, either from low rainfall or from high temperatures and a clear increase in the frequency of cycles of drought. These factors adversely affect agricultural productivity for rainfed and, to some extent, irrigated crops.


This edition of the National Accounts Studies of the ESCWA Region, Bulletin no. 28, includes available data and ESCWA estimates of gross domestic product (GDP) at both current and constant prices, in addition to the consolidated national accounts of ESCWA member countries during the four-year period between 2003-2007, and the estimated real GDP growth for 2008.
 

The paper focuses on bioenergy and the dual role it can play in contributing to the achievement of the   Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the 2030 Agenda, particularly the SDG7 on energy and related objectives, as well as the mitigation of climate change. It includes a presentation of bioenergy technologies with a focus on biofuels.

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