World Water day: 22 March

Moreover, climate change and other environmental factors are putting pressure on freshwater resources, making managing water sustainably more critical than ever. Each year, World Water Day has a different theme to highlight a particular aspect of water management. Thus, this is a remarkable opportunity for governments, organisations, and individuals to take action and raise awareness about the importance of water. Worldwide educational seminars, community clean-up projects, and water-themed art exhibits are held to promote the day's message.

What is The history of the Water Day?

World Water Day was declared to raise awareness about the importance of freshwater and the sustainable management of water resources.

The day was observed in 1993 after the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22nd World Water Day. However, the history of World Water Day dates back to much later. In the 1970s, the international community started recognising the importance of water issues.

In 1972, the United Nations held the first-ever Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, identifying water as a critical issue. The UN General Assembly declared 1981 the International Year of Water two decades later.

In 1992, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, known as the Earth Summit, was held in Rio de Janeiro. The conference adopted Agenda 21, which included a section on conserving and managing freshwater resources. Following the Earth Summit, the UN General Assembly declared March 22nd World Water Day in 1993.Since then, World Water Day has been celebrated annually, and its themes have covered a wide range of topics, including -

Water scarcity,

Water pollution,

Water and climate change,

Water and sustainable development

Human rights, etc.

It is thus an opportunity to recognise the importance of water and the need to take action to protect this precious resource for future generations.

What is The need for Managing Water Issues?

Water scarcity is a situation in which there is a lack of sufficient water resources to meet the water demand due to population growth, climate change, pollution, and unsustainable water management practices. The impacts of water scarcity can be severe and far-reaching, affecting people, the environment, and the economy.

When people don't have access to clean and safe water, they may use contaminated water sources, leading to waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. These diseases can cause severe health problems and even death, especially in children.

Water scarcity can also have a significant impact on agriculture and food security. Farmers may need help to irrigate their crops as water becomes scarce, leading to lower yields and reduced food production. This can cause food prices to rise, making it difficult for people to afford necessities.

Water scarcity also has significant impacts on the environment. When water resources are depleted, ecosystems such as wetlands and rivers can suffer. This can affect the region's biodiversity and have long-term consequences on the environment's health.

What makes world water day so important?

Water is a basic human need, and access to clean and safe water is essential for survival. Without water, we cannot grow crops, maintain hygiene, or sustain crucial bodily functions.

Water scarcity is a growing issue affecting billions of people worldwide, and it is projected to become more severe due to climate change and population growth. Although water covers more than 70% of the earth's surface, only 2.5% is freshwater, and much of that is inaccessible. This is interconnected with other global problems such as poverty, hunger, gender inequality, and climate change.

Here are some alarming statistics about the growing water crisis -

• According to a report from the World Wildlife Fund, about 700 million people worldwide could be displaced by intense water scarcity by 2030.
• The World Bank estimates that water scarcity could cost some regions up to 6% of their gross domestic product (GDP) by 2050.
• More than 1.6 billion people live in countries facing water scarcity, which is expected to rise to 2.8 billion by 2025.

• By 2025, half of the world's population will be living in water-stressed areas, according to the World Health Organization.
• Agriculture accounts for about 70% of global water withdrawals, and this number is expected to increase by 20-30% by 2050 due to population growth and rising food demand.

In many regions, groundwater resources are being depleted faster than they can be replenished, leading to long-term water scarcity and other environmental problems such as land subsidence and saltwater intrusion. These statistics demonstrate the urgent need for global action to address water scarcity and ensure sustainable access to clean water for all. Access to clean water is essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and addressing water-related challenges can help alleviate poverty and improve health, education, and economic development. Ensuring the sustainable management of water resources is essential for our planet's long-term health and well-being. This includes reducing water waste, improving water quality, protecting freshwater ecosystems, and promoting equitable access to water resources.

How can I contribute to the cause of water conservation?

Here are some tips to contribute to the cause of water conservation on the day this year -

Learn about water-related issues-

Take some time to research and educate yourself about water-related issues in your community or around the world. This can include understanding water scarcity, pollution, and access to clean water.

Take a pledge to conserve water-

Take measures to conserve water daily, such as fixing leaky taps, taking shorter showers, and using water-efficient appliances. Organise a clean-up of a nearby river, lake, or beach with your friends, family, or community. This will help clean the water and raise awareness about the importance of keeping our water sources clean.

Spread awareness about the day-

Share your knowledge about water conservation and management on social media or by talking to your friends and family. You can also organise an event or workshop to educate others about the importance of water.

Donate to water-related causes-

Donate to organisations that work towards providing access to clean water, promoting sustainable water management practices, and supporting communities affected by water-related issues.

Plant trees-

Trees help to protect watersheds and prevent erosion, which can impact water quality. Planting trees in your community can help to improve water quality and promote sustainable management practices.

Reduce plastic use-

Plastic pollution is a significant threat to water sources, and reducing plastic use can help to prevent plastic from entering our waterways.

This water day takes an oath to switch to reusable water bottles and bags and recycles plastic products to keep our earth's resources intact and conserved.