World Water Day was launched in 1993 by the United Nations and is held annually on March 22nd to bring attention to the importance of fresh water and humankind’s ability to sustainably manage this life supporting resource. This year, the theme of the Day is: Water for Cities, Responding to the Urban Challenge.
UNWater.org tells us: “There is growing evidence that water resources will be significantly affect by climate change, both in quantity and quality, particularly through the impact of floods, droughts and extreme events.” Many of these factors push people to cities in times of distress, further stressing the resources of these cities, including things we take for graned, like access to water and waste water services.
Sit down with the kid in your life. Talk to them about how lucky we are. Access to water is something we shouldn’t assume. Water is a scarce resource and one we should value more. According to the US Geological Survey, only 2.5% of the water on the earth is fresh water. Access and use of this fresh water is complex, with demands for drinking water competing with agriculture, commercial and manufacturing needs. What are you thoughts, ideas and plans as the world celebrates and acknowledges the importance of fresh, clean water in our lives and for use in our cities?