Every year, “World Water Day” is celebrated on March 22nd. This year marks the twenty-fifth celebration of World Water Day!
World Water Day is dedicated to raising awareness on the importance of water. This year’s theme is “Nature for Water”, which focuses on “exploring nature-based solutions to water challenges [that] we face in the 21st century” . According to the United Nations, today, there are more than 663 million people who are living without a safe, clean drinking water supply that is close to their home and easily accessible. Nearly two billion people use a water source that is contaminated with feces, which puts them at a high risk for disease. Also, over 842,000 deaths are caused annually due to a lack of clean water. However, there are many nature-based solutions that can aid in the resolution of the water challenges that many people face. Some examples of nature based solutions are to restore wetland in order to rebalance the water cycle, plant new forests, and reconnect rivers to floodplains.
There are many ways in which you can participate on World Water Day!
You can take a pledge to “Make Every Drop Count”, which works to reinforce the importance of water conservation. Singapore has adopted this as part of their 2018 World Water Day theme. So, join in, and make a splash by pledging to make every drop count! The World Water Day Organization also offers downloadable posters for you to help raise awareness on the conservation and distribution of clean water.
Donate! Here are some great organizations that help provide clean water to people around the world:
Generosity.org has funded over 813 projects and served over twenty countries in order to fulfill their commitment to ending the clean water crisis in developing countries.
The Water Project provides funds for the installation of wells and other reliable water sources. They engage with the community by educating them on the importance of clean water. Learn more about their goals by visiting their website.
Sources:
http://www.un.org/en/events/waterday/
http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/water-quality/en/
https://thewaterproject.org/how-to-give-clean-water