“Batteries are the future; they are the core missing piece in the energy transition puzzle”
Sophia Khan speaks to Mujtaba Haider Khan, CEO, Reon Energy,
about the transformation in Pakistan’s energy landscape.
☰
Addressing Pakistan’s Water Scarcity, One Faucet at a Time
As the world turns its head towards clean energy, sustainability and alternative life-sustaining planets, it appears that the issue of water remains urgent here on Earth. According to a 2023 WHO report, 2,700 people die due to a lack of safe drinking water every single day. It comes as no surprise that water scarcity stands as one of Pakistan’s most pressing challenges, with profound implications for public health, agriculture and economic stability. The country’s arid climate, coupled with rapid population growth and inefficient water management, has led to a significant decline in per capita water availability. This scarcity not only threatens food security but also exacerbates socio-economic disparities as communities grapple with limited access to clean water.
In response to this critical issue, Aabshar, founded by Ali Khursheed, has emerged as a beacon of hope. On a work-related trip to a rural area in Punjab, Khursheed witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of water shortages, which inspired him to develop practical solutions to conserve this vital resource. Drawing expertise from his background as a technical engineer, he embarked on a mission to create devices and systems that would enable both individuals and organisations to reduce water consumption effectively.
At the heart of Aabshar’s offerings is a range of water-saving products designed to optimise usage without compromising functionality.
Their flagship product, the Water Saving Optimizer, available in different calibrations, can be easily attached to existing taps, transforming the water flow into a fine mist that reduces consumption by up to 98%.
For its potential to make a substantial impact on water conservation efforts, this simple yet effective device has garnered international recognition by giants such as Novartis. Chosen out of 3,500+ companies, Aabshar was also featured by McKinsey & Company as a ‘Global Top Company’ in climate sustainability. Complementing the Optimizer, Aabshar offers an AI-powered monitoring system that is installed with each Smart Water Meter subscription to provide real-time data on water usage and leak detection while also suggesting optimisation strategies, enabling businesses to achieve their ESG and SDG goals.
Through this efficient data collection and consolidation system facilitated by AI, Aabshar has been successful in real-time measuring and reporting the water quality index (WQI) from places that have Aabshar devices and systems installed, making the company the flag-bearer of WQI-measuring systems in Pakistan.
Artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role in Aabshar’s mission to combat water scarcity. By leveraging AI, the company offers predictive analytics that anticipate potential leaks or overuse, allowing for proactive measures. This not only conserves water but also prevents potential damage to infrastructure, further reducing costs. The continuous learning capabilities of AI systems mean that the solutions become more efficient over time, adapting to changing usage patterns and environmental conditions.
The functionality of Aabshar’s products and systems is rooted in advanced technology and user-centric design.
Instead of selling, Aabshar functions on a subscription model. In about Rs 5,000-10,000, a company can fully convert its water infrastructure to Aabshar’s sustainable system of water usage and metering.
Once installed by the Aabshar team, the system remains the property and responsibility of Aabshar itself, including maintenance work when necessary. The devices are also insured for damage and theft at the time of installation. The data collected by the Smart Water Meter system regarding water quality, water flow and usage patterns enables precise identification of inefficiencies for the client company and provides Aabshar with consolidated data to monitor the water quality index and impact across Pakistan. This data-driven approach also allows for tailored recommendations, ensuring that each client can achieve optimal water conservation results.
Financially, Aabshar operates on a B2B model, targeting industries where water usage is intensive and conservation can lead to significant cost savings. Sectors such as textiles, hospitality, healthcare, and religious centres have been primary adopters of Aabshar’s technology. By integrating Aabshar’s solutions, organisations reduce water consumption, which begins a resource-conserving and cost-cutting domino effect. In places such as the DHA Mosque in Karachi, where water tankers serve as the main source of water, the monthly bill for water tanks reduced from approximately Rs 650,000 to Rs 150,000 by installing Aabshar’s Optimizers and Smart Water Meter systems. Since less water is being used, less water is being pumped and heated, which means less consumption of electricity and natural gas, drastically cutting those bills, too. In doing so, companies and community centres also enhance their corporate social responsibility profiles.
Aabshar’s success is also attributed to its stellar clientele. Collaborations with over 200 international brands, including Unilever, P&G, Shell and Standard Chartered, have amplified the company’s reach and impact. These alliances facilitate the integration of Aabshar’s solutions into diverse settings, from community centres to corporate environments, ensuring that water conservation becomes a collective effort.
Since its inception, Aabshar has made remarkable strides in water conservation.
To date, the company has saved approximately 4.3 billion litres of water, positively impacting over 236 million lives. This achievement translates to the preservation of an estimated one billion trees and a reduction of 90 million tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the interconnectedness of water conservation and broader environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Aabshar is committed to expanding its influence and technological capabilities. The company aims to generate 120 million dollars and save 80 billion litres of water by 2028, a goal that reflects both ambition and a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship. Plans are underway to enhance their AI systems further, incorporating more sophisticated predictive features and expanding their product line to cater to a broader range of industries and domestic users.
In a world where water scarcity is an escalating concern, Aabshar exemplifies how innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and a clear mission can converge to create meaningful change. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of water conservation through AI-driven solutions, Aabshar not only contributes to alleviating Pakistan’s water crisis but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices globally.
Zehra Khan is Program Assistant, South Asia Speaks.
zehrakhan653@gmail.com
Read Comments
Related Stories
Their flagship product, the Water Saving Optimizer, available in different calibrations, can be easily attached to existing taps, transforming the water flow into a fine mist that reduces consumption by up to 98%.
For its potential to make a substantial impact on water conservation efforts, this simple yet effective device has garnered international recognition by giants such as Novartis. Chosen out of 3,500+ companies, Aabshar was also featured by McKinsey & Company as a ‘Global Top Company’ in climate sustainability. Complementing the Optimizer, Aabshar offers an AI-powered monitoring system that is installed with each Smart Water Meter subscription to provide real-time data on water usage and leak detection while also suggesting optimisation strategies, enabling businesses to achieve their ESG and SDG goals.
Through this efficient data collection and consolidation system facilitated by AI, Aabshar has been successful in real-time measuring and reporting the water quality index (WQI) from places that have Aabshar devices and systems installed, making the company the flag-bearer of WQI-measuring systems in Pakistan.
Artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role in Aabshar’s mission to combat water scarcity. By leveraging AI, the company offers predictive analytics that anticipate potential leaks or overuse, allowing for proactive measures. This not only conserves water but also prevents potential damage to infrastructure, further reducing costs. The continuous learning capabilities of AI systems mean that the solutions become more efficient over time, adapting to changing usage patterns and environmental conditions.
The functionality of Aabshar’s products and systems is rooted in advanced technology and user-centric design.
Instead of selling, Aabshar functions on a subscription model. In about Rs 5,000-10,000, a company can fully convert its water infrastructure to Aabshar’s sustainable system of water usage and metering.
Once installed by the Aabshar team, the system remains the property and responsibility of Aabshar itself, including maintenance work when necessary. The devices are also insured for damage and theft at the time of installation. The data collected by the Smart Water Meter system regarding water quality, water flow and usage patterns enables precise identification of inefficiencies for the client company and provides Aabshar with consolidated data to monitor the water quality index and impact across Pakistan. This data-driven approach also allows for tailored recommendations, ensuring that each client can achieve optimal water conservation results.
Financially, Aabshar operates on a B2B model, targeting industries where water usage is intensive and conservation can lead to significant cost savings. Sectors such as textiles, hospitality, healthcare, and religious centres have been primary adopters of Aabshar’s technology. By integrating Aabshar’s solutions, organisations reduce water consumption, which begins a resource-conserving and cost-cutting domino effect. In places such as the DHA Mosque in Karachi, where water tankers serve as the main source of water, the monthly bill for water tanks reduced from approximately Rs 650,000 to Rs 150,000 by installing Aabshar’s Optimizers and Smart Water Meter systems. Since less water is being used, less water is being pumped and heated, which means less consumption of electricity and natural gas, drastically cutting those bills, too. In doing so, companies and community centres also enhance their corporate social responsibility profiles.
Aabshar’s success is also attributed to its stellar clientele. Collaborations with over 200 international brands, including Unilever, P&G, Shell and Standard Chartered, have amplified the company’s reach and impact. These alliances facilitate the integration of Aabshar’s solutions into diverse settings, from community centres to corporate environments, ensuring that water conservation becomes a collective effort.
Since its inception, Aabshar has made remarkable strides in water conservation.
To date, the company has saved approximately 4.3 billion litres of water, positively impacting over 236 million lives. This achievement translates to the preservation of an estimated one billion trees and a reduction of 90 million tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the interconnectedness of water conservation and broader environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Aabshar is committed to expanding its influence and technological capabilities. The company aims to generate 120 million dollars and save 80 billion litres of water by 2028, a goal that reflects both ambition and a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship. Plans are underway to enhance their AI systems further, incorporating more sophisticated predictive features and expanding their product line to cater to a broader range of industries and domestic users.
In a world where water scarcity is an escalating concern, Aabshar exemplifies how innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and a clear mission can converge to create meaningful change. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of water conservation through AI-driven solutions, Aabshar not only contributes to alleviating Pakistan’s water crisis but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices globally.
Zehra Khan is Program Assistant, South Asia Speaks.
zehrakhan653@gmail.com
Read Comments
Related Stories
Instead of selling, Aabshar functions on a subscription model. In about Rs 5,000-10,000, a company can fully convert its water infrastructure to Aabshar’s sustainable system of water usage and metering.
Once installed by the Aabshar team, the system remains the property and responsibility of Aabshar itself, including maintenance work when necessary. The devices are also insured for damage and theft at the time of installation. The data collected by the Smart Water Meter system regarding water quality, water flow and usage patterns enables precise identification of inefficiencies for the client company and provides Aabshar with consolidated data to monitor the water quality index and impact across Pakistan. This data-driven approach also allows for tailored recommendations, ensuring that each client can achieve optimal water conservation results.
Financially, Aabshar operates on a B2B model, targeting industries where water usage is intensive and conservation can lead to significant cost savings. Sectors such as textiles, hospitality, healthcare, and religious centres have been primary adopters of Aabshar’s technology. By integrating Aabshar’s solutions, organisations reduce water consumption, which begins a resource-conserving and cost-cutting domino effect. In places such as the DHA Mosque in Karachi, where water tankers serve as the main source of water, the monthly bill for water tanks reduced from approximately Rs 650,000 to Rs 150,000 by installing Aabshar’s Optimizers and Smart Water Meter systems. Since less water is being used, less water is being pumped and heated, which means less consumption of electricity and natural gas, drastically cutting those bills, too. In doing so, companies and community centres also enhance their corporate social responsibility profiles.
Aabshar’s success is also attributed to its stellar clientele. Collaborations with over 200 international brands, including Unilever, P&G, Shell and Standard Chartered, have amplified the company’s reach and impact. These alliances facilitate the integration of Aabshar’s solutions into diverse settings, from community centres to corporate environments, ensuring that water conservation becomes a collective effort.
Since its inception, Aabshar has made remarkable strides in water conservation.
To date, the company has saved approximately 4.3 billion litres of water, positively impacting over 236 million lives. This achievement translates to the preservation of an estimated one billion trees and a reduction of 90 million tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the interconnectedness of water conservation and broader environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Aabshar is committed to expanding its influence and technological capabilities. The company aims to generate 120 million dollars and save 80 billion litres of water by 2028, a goal that reflects both ambition and a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship. Plans are underway to enhance their AI systems further, incorporating more sophisticated predictive features and expanding their product line to cater to a broader range of industries and domestic users.
In a world where water scarcity is an escalating concern, Aabshar exemplifies how innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and a clear mission can converge to create meaningful change. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of water conservation through AI-driven solutions, Aabshar not only contributes to alleviating Pakistan’s water crisis but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices globally.
Zehra Khan is Program Assistant, South Asia Speaks.
zehrakhan653@gmail.com
Read Comments
Related Stories
To date, the company has saved approximately 4.3 billion litres of water, positively impacting over 236 million lives. This achievement translates to the preservation of an estimated one billion trees and a reduction of 90 million tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the interconnectedness of water conservation and broader environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Aabshar is committed to expanding its influence and technological capabilities. The company aims to generate 120 million dollars and save 80 billion litres of water by 2028, a goal that reflects both ambition and a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship. Plans are underway to enhance their AI systems further, incorporating more sophisticated predictive features and expanding their product line to cater to a broader range of industries and domestic users.
In a world where water scarcity is an escalating concern, Aabshar exemplifies how innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and a clear mission can converge to create meaningful change. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of water conservation through AI-driven solutions, Aabshar not only contributes to alleviating Pakistan’s water crisis but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices globally.
Zehra Khan is Program Assistant, South Asia Speaks.
zehrakhan653@gmail.com