World Water Day 2011

I post this with a bit of wistfulness, being a water professional in a former life.   I hope that I haven't left that part of me behind, and certainly the brain is still engaged, it's just my livelihood doesn't hinge on my participation in these issues anymore.  It's a sad commentary on the priorities in this world today.

Celebrate World Water Day, March 22, 2011

Water is a crucial resource for humans and life on Earth. To celebrate its life-sustaining qualities, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated March 22 as World Water Day to focus attention on the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. 

 

Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater. This year’s theme, Water for Cities: Responding to the Urban Challenge, spotlights and encourages governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to actively engage in addressing urban water management.

According to the UN, one in two people on the planet now live in cities. As the world’s cities become more crowded, the need for water increases. Globally, however, government investment in water infrastructure has not kept up with urbanization. Piping water to growing populations can be complex and expensive. Governments often do not have the resources to meet the demand. And the populations that need the most help often are the poorest. Compound that with a lack of sanitation, and public health threats become worldwide headlines.

To meet this challenge, the UN is encouraging everyone to participate in World Water Day events. Campaign materials, brochures, and other information are available at www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/index.html.