Water covers 71% of the Earth, 96.5% is saltwater. Freshwater is only 3.5% of the total amount, and humans can only consume 1%.
As mountains of plastic bottles and discarded waste float aimlessly through our rivers and oceans, CO2 levels in the atmosphere are increasing, which contributes to global warming. Freshwater sources, such as glaciers, are melting rapidly due to rising temperatures. This has serious implications for our future.
Plastic production, waste, and consumption affects all species who rely on the water for hydration and as a home, including us. Coral reefs are dying and the destruction of them can be linked directly to climate change, rising sea levels and CO2 emissions.
World Water Day, observed annually on the 22nd of March, began in 1993 to increase awareness about its importance and to recognise that 2 billion people do not have clean drinking water. Its main goal is to “inspire actions towards sustainable development”, and “water and sanitation to all by 2030”. Though this may seem like a difficult and possibly impossible task, humans have solved seemingly impossible problems in the past. We see that the saying “necessity breeds invention” is true in our water problems. People and organisations all over the world are making significant strides. To encourage hydration, consider Office Water Coolers Wales from waterforyou.net
The theme of this year’s World Water Day is all about glaciers and meltwater and the importance of preserving glaciers for future generations. To address climate change, increasing populations, and conservation measures, the theme examines the balance between human needs and rights, as well as how water can promote stability while encouraging sustainable development.