World Water Day 2023 | History, Significance, Theme & Tips On How You Can Save Water

The main goals of World Water Day 2023 are to raise awareness of water-related issues and motivate people to manage freshwater resources sustainably.

World Water Day is observed annually on March 22 to draw attention to the value of water and to the global water crisis. The purpose of the day is to "support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030," according to the United Nations website.

The main goal of the day is to raise awareness of and inspire people to manage freshwater resources sustainably, as well as to learn more about issues related to water, such as water pollution, scarcity, inadequate water, and lack of sanitation, and to take the necessary action to make a difference.

History:

On December 22, 1992, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution designating March 22 as World Water Day. Since that time, March 22 has become a day of celebration for people all over the world. In 1993, the first World Water Day was celebrated.

Significance:

The adage "Water is the elixir of life" is well known. It is necessary for everything in life, from drinking to cleaning. While many people enjoy the luxury of having access to running water constantly, a sizable portion of the world's population lacks any kind of water supply.

According to the UN, two billion people worldwide currently lack access to clean drinking water. An estimated 1.4 million people per year pass away from diseases brought on by inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene, and 74 million will see their lives cut short. By 2050, the OECD projects that there will be a 55% increase in global water demand (measured in water withdrawals).

To combat the water crisis, numerous organizations, NGOs, and individuals commemorate the day by practicing water conservation in their own unique ways.

Theme:

The theme of World Water Day in 2023, "Accelerating the change to solve the water and sanitation crisis," emphasizes the importance of acting forcefully to address the global water crisis. According to the UN, "billions of people, as well as countless establishments such as factories, schools, hospitals, and businesses, lack access to safe water and toilets. In order to move beyond business as usual, it is urgent to accelerate change.

The UN is also launching the UN 2023 Water Conference, which will take place in New York, United States, from March 22–24. It will be the first event of its kind in nearly 50 years and aim to bring people together around water.

Some Tips On How You Can Save Water

• Fix any leaks: Check for any leaks in your home's plumbing and get them fixed. Even a small leak can waste a lot of water over time.

• Take shorter showers: Limit your shower time to conserve water. You can also install a low-flow showerhead that uses less water without sacrificing pressure.

• Turn off the tap: Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving. This can save a lot of water.

• Use a dishwasher and washing machine efficiently: Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full. This will save water and energy.

• Water your lawn efficiently: Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation. You can also use a drip irrigation system that delivers water directly to the roots of your plants.

• Install water-efficient appliances: Consider replacing your old appliances with water-efficient ones. Look for appliances with an ENERGY STAR rating, which means they use less water and energy.

• Harvest rainwater: Collect rainwater in a barrel or bucket to water your plants or garden. This is a great way to save water and reduce your water bill.

• Use a broom to clean: Instead of using a hose to clean your driveway or patio, use a broom. This will save a lot of water.

Remember, even small changes can make a big difference when it comes to water conservation. Let's all do our part to conserve this precious resource.