Water scarcity is identified as the main problem facing Qatar.
In the absence of permanent surface water, agriculture is almost entirely dependent on irrigation from pumped groundwater. It is estimated that Qatar's aquifers will be depleted in 20 or 30 years if the present rate of groundwater withdrawals continues. The report describes the extent of marine water pollution in harbors, ports, and coastal areas due to discharges from the oil and other industries. Qatar's soils are then classified, indicating an extremely limited cultivable area, some of which has been degraded by inappropriate agricultural and irrigation practices. The report then examines the environmental impact of Qatar's extensive energy sector.