Friday, March 22, 2013

World Water Day

International World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a way of focusing on how important freshwater is to humanity. We all need water. For most people in the world, it's not as easy as turning a tap. It takes 5 gallons of water for all of our daily needs—basic hygiene, household chores, and what we consume! Most people around the world do not have access to 5 gallons of freshwater a day, yet the average American uses over 70 gallons per day. I looked at my last water bill, and with the two of us we each used 90 gallons per day.


I never think very much about our water except when I pay the bill.  I found some statistics that made me realize how fortunate I am.  Over one billion people do not have access to clean water and almost 2.5 billion do not have access to adequate sanitation. 85% of the world population lives in the driest half of the planet. I need to be reminded how lucky I am.


Even in places that have clean water, a lot of peoples time is spent in carrying water.  I'm sure that I wouldn't be using nearly 100 gallons of water a day if I had to carry it several miles. Look at the photos below, and then remember how lucky you are the next time you get a drink of water, use the toilet, wash your hands, or take a shower.














Spend a few moments to watch this short video, and then think about what much of the world has to go through just to have water. 

1 comment:

  1. Yep, one of those things we all take for granted until a pipe breaks and they turn your water off for half the day and you think you're going to die!

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