Here’s How To Appreciate World Water Day
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Every year on March 22 we draw our attention to World Water Day. While we should constantly be concerned about water consumption, now more than ever we all need do our part in learning about the different ways to tackle the ongoing water crisis. The United Nations says, “Today, 1.8 billion people use a source of drinking water contaminated with feces, putting them at risk of contracting cholera, dysentery, typhoid and polio.”
The United Nations launched the project Sustainable Development Goals in 2015. The goal is to make sure everyone has access to safe drinking water by 2030. This year’s theme is wastewater. On a global scale, we need to reduce and reuse water in our homes and use greywater (relatively clean wastewater from baths, sinks, washing machines and other appliances) for gardening and other outdoor uses. The goal is to increase water recycling and educate people about safe reuse.
A Time article points out that “over 80% of all wastewater is not used again.” By learning the proper way to treat wastewater, you could do your party to help with shortages. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) says that small household leaks (shower, sink, hose, etc.) can add up to gallons of water lost every day. In an effort to conserve, the EPA established “Fix a Leak Week” which encourages Americans to check their plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks every year from March 20 through 26.
So how can you help to honor World Water Day and not be part of the problem moving forward? You can start by taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth, washing only full loads of laundry and making sure you fully load up your dishwasher. Maybe even keep a pitcher of water in your fridge so you don’t have to wait for the water to get cold when you’re thirsty. If you’re lucky enough to have easy access to clean drinking water, don’t be greedy, and make sure you’re doing your part in conserving our resources.
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