World Water Day occurs on March 22 every year. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the day, which was designated by the UN General Assembly in 1993.
According to the UN, the event, which this year has a theme of Water and Sustainable Development, is about more than just celebrating this precious natural resource. “It’s a day to make a difference for the members of the global population who suffer from water-related issues. It’s a day to prepare for how we manage water in the future.”
Here are a few lessons we can take from World Water Day and apply in the home and office every day of the year.
Water is important for our health
Hand washing is essential to avoid spreading infectious bacteria in your workplace and home. But how would you be able to effectively clean your hands without water? Unfortunately, some people in developing countries do not even have access to enough clean water to complete this simple yet important task, which many of us probably take for granted.
The UN notes that water is essential for sanitation facilities that are not only healthy but are also dignified. However, making sure every person worldwide has safe water and sanitation is estimated to cost $US107 billion a year over a five- year period. Those of us who live in developed countries are very lucky to have access to running water every day, which is why it’s important to conserve and manage it wisely.
Have you gone green?
Going green, or being more aware of caring for your surrounding environment, is also important. At home, this might include recycling, better water management, and using environmentally friendly cleaning products.
At the office, check if your commercial cleaning services have gone green as well. An effective commercial cleaning service will use microfiber mops that allow maximum floor cleaning with minimal water and chemicals, and use cleaning products chosen for their marginal environmental impact.
Celebration
Although World Water Day isn’t classified as a public holiday, citizens worldwide still join together to mark the day, celebrate water, and raise awareness of the need to conserve and better manage it. Events are held to celebrate the day, including theatre performances, art exhibitions and live music.
There are educational seminars that talk about the importance of water across the world and protecting our water supplies. Some schools participate in excursions to local rivers and lakes too. The day is also used as a kick-starter for fundraising campaigns concerning water conservation and obtaining clean water access for those
in developing countries.
World Water Day reflects the importance of water education and conservation in every country across the globe, and is a timely reminder to do our bit by considering things like conserving water and using greener cleaning products.