World Water Day
World Water Day is about joining together to highlight the global water crisis and celebrate our triumphs thus far. This international holiday was suggested at the 1992 United Nations Conference in Rio de Janeiro and established on March 22nd 1993. The theme of this year’s World Water Day is Water Cooperation.
Socio-economic development, the environment, and our basic human needs are dependent on water. The United Nations General Assembly recognizes that cooperation is crucial to creating a balance between the various needs of water as well as sharing the vital resource equally throughout the planet. Water is construed as an international symbol of peace making the day that much more powerful.
Drought is the most common cause of severe food shortages in developing countries and caused more deaths during the last century than any other natural disaster. More than 40% of people are affected by water scarcity. It is predicted that by 2025, 1.8 billion people will be living in an area with no available water. All food requires water whether it’s produced from crops, livestock, aquaculture or the forest. For example, it takes approximately 1,500 liters of water to make 1 kilogram of wheat and perhaps more surprisingly, it takes 10 times more water to produce one kilogram of beef!
Events are held around the world to raise awareness of challenges, start dialogue and promote innovative solutions for water cooperation. These events will take place throughout the year and anyone can participate or start their own event based on this year’s theme.
Think of all our daily uses of water (cleaning, drinking, cooking). Yet, water is also used to make paper, food and clothes. It is imperative that we conserve this essential resource. If you are interested in getting involved visit www.unwater.org and http://waterday.org/.
How will you honor World Water Day’s theme of Water Cooperation?
Hi Bonnie! My name is Jody and I am a Kindergarden teacher. In honor of this day, at recess, I filled up a cup of water for each child and gave it to them as they were coming in from the playground. They were slightly confused, because normally I give them apple juice, but I explained to them the importance of water and how much healthier it is for your body.
Bravo Jody. Getting kids to enjoy water at a young age is so important. Thanks for your comment.