World Water Day

World Water Day History

World Water Day serves to highlight the critical value of water in maintaining good health, cultivating crops, keeping wildlife thriving, and making economies function. Each year, a specific water-related issue is the focus, potentially affecting access to clean and safe water, sanitation, or climate change. The goal? To achieve water for all by 2030, following UN's Sustainable Development Goal 6.

The establishment of World Water Day was suggested in 1992 at the UN Conference on Environment and Development in Brazil. People in Canada recognise this day as an opportunity to learn more about water-related issues, be inspired to tell others, and take action in making a difference. Due to Canada's vast geography, rich water resources, and diverse ecosystems, sustainable water management and conservation are vital issues under the spotlight. Canadians also play an essential role globally through international aid, contributing to water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives in developing countries.

In Canada, World Water Day is observed in various ways. This ranges from educational events and exhibitions for schools, community festivals, to campaigns influencing government policy, all raising awareness about the importance of fresh water and advocating for sustainable management of freshwater resources. World Water Day is celebrated each year on March 22nd.

Facts about World Water Day

• The theme for World Water Day in 2024 was Water For Peace. The theme in 2023 was Accelerating Change.
• According to the WHO, as of 2022, 2.2 billion people around the world have limited access to safe drinking water.
• Canada is a signatory to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which sets a specific goal to "Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all", which aligns with the purpose of World Water Day.
• The Mackenzie River is Canada's longest river, spanning 4,241 kilometres. It flows through a vast, isolated region of forests and tundra before emptying into the Arctic Ocean.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Water Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Water Day

• Don't waste water!!! Make a conscious effort to use less water on World Water Day and on other days. Some ways to reduce water consumption include, showers instead of baths, washing full loads of clothing only and turning off the tap while washing dishes and brushing teeth.
• Volunteer to help clean up trash and other debris along a beach or shore. This garbage and debris pollutes the water that we need in our daily lives.
• Visit the Toronto Waterfront: The waterfront, with its beautiful views, is an ideal place to celebrate World Water Day. Many related events and activities are organized here, including beach clean-ups or water-related art installations.
• Read a book to learn more about water in Canada:
  Water: The Fate of Our Most Precious Resource - by Marq de Villiers: This book offers a comprehensive view of the state of water in Canada.
  Eau Canada: The Future of Canada's Water - by Karen Bakker: This is an insightful collection of essays dealing with the complex issues surrounding water management in Canada.