March 22 is observed as World Water Day every year to acknowledge the importance of freshwater. Celebrated since 1993, it is an annual UN observance day that focuses on the paramount importance of water and the need for conservation. Water is life as it carries nutrients to all cells in our body and oxygen to our brain. It helps in flushing out toxins and waste and also plays an important role in maintaining body temperature. Since it is pandemic time, therefore, this year it will be a virtual celebration while the theme for this year world water day is valuing water.
Water is multifaceted when it comes to its usage as it is used from industries to households. This indicates that water is an integral resource for everyone and therefore sustainability in its usage is extremely important or else it might deplete. Role of water in our Environment: Water is the driving force of all nature. The environment needs water to support people, plants and animals. Having sufficient water means a healthy environment. Water nourishes the entire ecosystem and provides habitat for plants and animals. It helps to transport oxygen, minerals, nutrients and waste products to and from the cells of living beings.
Important Factors That Make Water a Valuable Resource
• Earth is well known as the “Water Planet”.
• Did you realise that Earth’s surface is covered with 71% of water?
• Out of this 71%, around 3% of the earth’s water is fresh.
• Out of this 3%, just 0.5% is available for consumption.
• The sad part is 2.5% of freshwater is locked up in glaciers, polar ice caps, atmosphere, and soil or lies too below the surface of the Earth that it’s almost not possible for use.
These facts indicate that this resource that supports the entire life of the planet is not in great abundance and therefore it is important to use it mindfully. This World Water Day, let’s pledge to save and conserve these valuable resources by making a few simple alterations in our daily life.
10 simple ways to save water
1. Put off the tap while brushing your teeth.
2. Practice smart lawn watering.
3. Use a bucket and sponge to wash your car instead of a hosepipe.
4. Check your hoses, faucets, and appliances regularly for leaks.
5. Don’t keep the tap running while at the same time washing clothes or utensils.
6. Fill your glass only with the water you need.
7. Get a low-flush toilet.
8. Reduce food waste.
9. Take hold of the rainwater.
10. Install a water meter to keep a tab on water usage.
Save water, save life!