World Water Day is celebrated on March 22 every year and its main objective is to raise awareness of the importance of taking care of the planet’s water resources, a vital element for the life of all species on Earth.
With the celebration of this event, it is intended to raise awareness of the global water crisis and the problems faced by millions of people who do not have access to a supply of drinking water, as well as the urgent measures that must be taken in this regard.
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Origin of World Water Day
World Water Day was proclaimed by the United Nations (UN) in 1992. In that year, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. From there was born the proposal, being 1993 the first year of celebration.
Subsequently, there were other mentions such as the International Year of Water Cooperation 2013 and the Decade “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018-2028. All of this underlines the idea of the UN that water is essential for development and world peace.
Water is a natural resource made up of molecules of hydrogen and oxygen, essential for life. It is a property considered the the planet’s liquid gold and this allows all terrestrial species to continue to grow and develop every day.
Hence the importance of avoiding waste. It is a limited resource, in which greater awareness is needed for its preservation, because if one day it were to become scarce, it would have irreversible consequences for humanity.
Theme 2023: Be the Change
During the celebration of this event, a central motto or theme is selected each year. The theme for World Water Day 2023 is: “Accelerating Change” with a call to action for society: “I know the change”. This is to underline the urgency of accelerating change so that water reaches all corners of the planet, even the poorest.
A global campaign has been created to encourage people to take action to change the way they use water. with the motto “Be the change you want to see in the world” responsibility for water management is transferred to each of us.
Curiosities on the water
On the occasion of the celebration of this event, below we show some curious and interesting facts about water. It is essential to be aware of this problem:
- It is estimated that more than 2 billion people in the world do not have direct access to drinking water sources.
- It is estimated that some 4,500 million people lack a safe sanitation system for drinking water, which contributes to the spread of disease.
- Since 2010, the United Nations has recognized water as a human right.
- Every year, 3.5 million people die from water quality-related diseases.
- 97% of water is found in the oceans.
- 2.5% of the planet’s water is fresh and comes from groundwater. However, not everything is fit for human consumption, as much of it is frozen in glaciers.
- Around 700 children die every day worldwide from diarrhea linked to water scarcity or lack of sanitation.
- Pool water can be reused to clean floors, stairs and common areas.
- Water is the main chemical component of the human body, which is equivalent to between 50 and 70% of the body weight of an adult person.
- It is predicted that within two decades, the global demand for water will increase by more than 50%.
- A 5-minute shower bath consumes between 95 and 190 liters of water.
- In gardens and green spaces, it is recommended to use drought-resistant ornamental elements, such as stones, gravel or bark. Also use irrigation systems, such as drip or micro-sprinkler.
- 80% of wastewater intended for human consumption is discharged without adequate treatment, contaminating rivers and seas.
- Some substances such as pesticides and nitrates compromise groundwater quality.
- Climate change causes the destruction, pollution and drought of natural water sources.
- According to UN figures, only 60% of the world’s population has access to a basic handwashing facility.
- 90% of the planet’s water resources are found in Antarctica.
- Some 4 billion people lack access to basic services, such as latrines and toilets.
- When a person is thirsty, it is because they have lost more than 1% of the total water in their body.
- About 40% of the water used for irrigation comes from aquifers.
How can we conserve water?
We can all support and commit to the conservation of this precious liquid. We show some basic recommendations for taking care of the water. It is in our hands to preserve the environment, you can make a difference!
- Check the pipes and water access keys, in order to detect possible leaks and leaks.
- It uses a water control system in the toilets. You can place a brick or a bottle of sand in the cistern or tank.
- Turn off the tap when washing your hands, shaving or brushing your teeth.
- Use a moderate amount of water for washing dishes and the car. Use the remaining soapy water for household cleaning.
- Water the plants or lawn in the morning, using only the amount needed.
- Take short baths. Turn off the tap while you soap up and collect excess water in a bucket when you turn on the tap. You can reuse it to water plants.
- Avoid using electrical appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers to wash small amounts of clothes or dishes.
- Do not put polluting products, waste or oil in the toilet, the dishwasher or the sink. Apply this advice if you go to the beach, to the edge of a lake or a river.
- By cleaning the aquariums, the water can be reused to water the plants.
How to celebrate World Water Day?
World Water Day is an opportune date for all of us, individually or collectively, to begin, today, to care for, value and ration the water we use in our many daily activities.
There are many things we can do from our home, our community, or wherever we don’t thrive. Let’s start by educating our children, so that they are the guardians and protectors of waterwhich they will benefit from in the future, if they learn to care for it and ration it properly.
Our contribution is also essential. For this reason, we invite you to create awareness using the various social networks with an opinion, idea or suggestion on this interesting topic.
Share useful and interesting information about World Water Day, via the hashtag #World Water Day.
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