22nd March is World Water Day every year. This years theme is “Valuing Water” Like most things Water is going to mean different things to different people, so what does water mean to you? For most of us we take it for granted. We turn on the tap and water comes out. We use it to cook, clean, wash, without thought. Personally I like to walk by water. Whether it be the sea, a lake, a river or even a small garden fish pond. I find water calming and soothing and just staring at it will relieve stress.
Not only are there are still many communities in the world without clean water in their streams and rivers let alone running water which is why I donate to Water Aid every month to help bring fresh water to those who need it. There are also many areas of the world suffering from droughts which seem to be extended every year. Even Australia has water shortages and no new commercial buildings are allowed unless there is provision for the building to be self-sufficient in water.
This year 2021 the UN is initiating a worldwide action plan for areas where our activities (us humans) are negatively impacting on our water supplies and what can be done about it.
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on December 22, 1992, declaring March 22 to be the World Day for Water each year at a UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in June. Countries were encouraged to develop activities to highlight local needs for water. The first World Day for Water was observed in 1993.
The Water for Life Decade took place between 2005 - 2015 where many water-related programs were initiated.
World Water Day's main symbol is the shape of a water drop in the UN's color blue. Photographs of water being used or in rivers, reservoirs, lakes or seas are widely displayed on this occasion.
Events Held
Many events are held worldwide during World Water Day. These include:
Symposia for local, national and international leaders on water management and security.
Educational events on the importance of clean water and protecting water resources.
Campaigns and events to raise money for access to clean and affordable water.
Excursions to local rivers, lakes and reservoirs.
Special broadcasts on television and radio and the Internet.
Walks, runs and swimming other sports competitions.
Some events are held on actual World Water Day date, while others are held on convenient dates close to March 22. World Water Day is not a public holiday in countries such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States.