By George Edwards

Since 1993, the United Nations has instituted a call to observe World Water Day every March 22^nd. World Water Day is dedicated to highlighting the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources with the goal of attaining clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. Each year focuses on a theme related to water issues, and 2024’s specific focus is “Leveraging Water for Peace”.

We sometimes take water for granted, but water is the most basic element of life, and it has the potential to foster cooperation or exacerbate conflict among nations and communities. According to the United Nations, over 2 billion people worldwide live in countries experiencing high water stress, and about 4 billion people face severe water scarcity during at least one month of the year.

It is surprising that agriculture consumes around 70% of the world’s freshwater. But inefficient practices have jeopardized food production, leading to food shortages and increased prices. Common farming techniques extract groundwater at rates faster than it can be replenished, leading to a rapid decline in water tables. In addition to food shortages and droughts, unsustainable water use can collapse aquatic ecosystems, rapidly depleting fish populations.

Poor water quality is also a significant problem that can cause societal unrest. Lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities can lead to the spread of diseases, such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. The World Health Organization also estimates that 829,000 people die each year from diarrhea due to unsafe drinking-water, sanitation, and hand hygiene.

Given the critical importance water use and sanitation play in our lives it’s worth considering ways to help conserve our most vital resource.

Here are some things to consider:

• Be conscious of your water usage: Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving, fix leaks as soon as you can, and be mindful of the amount of the you spend showering. Shortening your shower by just a few minutes can save gallons of water each time.

• Fix Leaks Promptly: Repair dripping faucets, leaking toilets, and other plumbing leaks as soon as you notice them. A small drip can waste a significant amount of water over time.

• Full Loads Only: Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when they are fully loaded to maximize efficiency.

• Efficient Appliances: Use water-efficient appliances and fixtures, like low-flow showerheads or dual-flush toilets, which can reduce water consumption substantially.

• Smart Gardening: Water plants early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation, purchase a rain barrel to collect rain for watering your garden, and use mulch around plants to retain soil moisture.

• Cover Swimming Pools: When not in use, covering your pool will reduce water loss due to evaporation.

World Water Day can serve as a great opportunity to reflect and consider ways to make a difference through smart consumption of water in your daily routine. Remember, small actions will accumulate successfully over time, and go a long way to help other in need.