World Water Day is an international day to highlight the importance of safe water and to bring awareness to the world water crisis. It is celebrated on the 22nd March every year and this year’s theme is valuing water.
In order to truly appreciate water, it is vital to understand what it means to people. In the lead up to World Water Day the United Nations (UN) is leading a global conversation to hear unique stories from around the world. The more we understand the true value behind water, the better we can work towards protecting this essential resource.
Water means different things to everyone. It depends on where you live, the work you do, your culture and many other factors. The simple fact is that everyone is affected by the availability of water in some way. But have you ever really thought about what water means to you and how you would be impacted if those supplies dwindled or disappeared?
Water is key
Water is the basis of life and is essential for the survival of people and the planet. However, only 1% of water on Earth is readily available for drinking, agriculture, industry and the environment, the rest is salty or locked away in glaciers. It is a finite resource and needs to be used in a sustainable manner.
The true value of water is complex. It is much more than fresh water to drink and keep us healthy; it is also key for the economy, socially, culturally and for maintaining a healthy environment. All of these values must be assessed to ensure the correct management of this irreplaceable, finite resource that all of us as humans rely on.
Today, water is under threat from the impacts of climate change, a growing population and increasing demands from industry and agriculture. Globally, we are not using water in a sustainable way and all too often are taking it for granted or presuming it is our right to have an unlimited supply.
The UN rapporteur for safe drinking water and sanitation, Pedro Arrojo-Agudo, takes a closer look at the value of water.
World Water Day aims to implementing new targets to support our future supply of water. A big part of that involves supporting the achievement of the UN Sustainability Development Goal 6. The aim of this goal is to be able to provide water and sanitation for all by 2030. The UN hopes that by opening up the conversation to people from all around the world, they will gain insight into how best to sustainably manage our water resources. Water is a global issue and needs to be addressed in comprehensive fashion.
Join the conversation
It’s time to get involved! This year you are being encouraged to tell your story to help shape the World Water Day campaign. All of your contributions will become part of a report highlighting what water means to people around the world. Get involved with the discussions via the World Water day website and use #Water2Me and #WorldWaterDay on social media.
Your stories can make a difference to how water is valued.