Many nations throughout the world are experiencing water scarcity as a result of expanding population and greater use of freshwater sources. Every year on March 22nd, World Water Day is marked to promote public awareness about the significance of water.
The day’s main purpose is to encourage people to conserve water. The day also urges increased support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), with the sixth SDG aiming to deliver water and sanitation to all by 2030.
Theme
Every year, World Water Day is observed with a special theme to promote awareness about natural resource conservation. The topic for this year is ‘Groundwater — Making the Invisible Visible.’
The subject emphasises the role of groundwater in agriculture, industry, sanitation, and adaptation to climate change. According to UNESCO, groundwater provides half of the total amount of water extracted for household use worldwide, including drinking water for communities that do not have access to fresh water via public or private supply lines.
History
The concept of World Water Day dates back to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. On December 22, 1992, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution declaring this day to be observed. According to the UN decision, the 22nd of March will be proclaimed as World Water Day. Every year since then, the day has been observed.
Celebrations
Every year, people and organisations commemorate World Water Day by hosting activities such as panels, seminars, and debates to raise awareness about the need of protecting freshwater resources.
According to UNESCO’s official website, the World Water Forum will be held from March 21 to March 26 this year to commemorate the event. In addition, a World Water Development Report will be published to raise awareness about the tools and policies required for sustainable freshwater usage.