Celebrating World Water Day

Since 1993, the United Nations has observed March 22 as World Water Day to call attention to climate change and the global water crisis.

by Daisy Velasco

World Water Day is a celebration to raise awareness towards the global water crisis, climate change and sustainable freshwater. This year, their website (www.worldwaterday.org) asked individuals to share what water means to them on social media. Members who are part of the event write posts to teach the importance of how water is used in our daily ecosystem.

Earth’s surface is 71% water which creates resources for terrestrial plants. These plants, along with agriculture, are the greatest water consumers because they require energy and nutrients to grow. Water is essential to our food cycle and integral to our survival. The surface of the Earth primarily being made of water also benefits the marine biosphere. The sea is home to thousands of species and plants that breathe and grow underwater.

However, climate change has negatively affected the sea-surface temperatures. The increase of ocean acidity makes it difficult for certain organisms to grow and repopulate. Animals are being harmed and the coral reefs are also slowly disappearing.

The production of water is utilized in water infrastructure, sanitation and health services. Water infrastructure filters water to be released where it is needed the most and sanitation is used as a provision for people to maintain a hygienic environment for drinking water.

Illustration by Daisy Velasco

The ocean helps transport tanks of clean water across the globe and World Water Day works with organizations to assist areas that lack a source of water.

Water is an essential element to our existence. It can also maintain a peaceful atmosphere and connection to oneself. By meditating and listening to the movement of water, the spirit and mind is relaxed.

According to Explore Health, the sound of water triggers a response that increases blood flow to our brain, which can reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

World Water Day is a day to act and raise awareness. According to Tsunami Products, over 20 cities are dealing with the lack of water sources.

In 2018, Cape Town, South Africa placed a water restriction that allowed only 50 liters per person. Although the region is supplied by six dams, they have been dealing with a drought due to the rising global temperature.

World Water Day is a day to educate yourself the global water crisis. A few suggestions on how people can make a difference is by taking shorter showers and relaying water conservation information to their community.