"Because of its growth and development, the human population increasingly affects the hydrological cycle, altering its quality and distribution. But the amount of freshwater on Earth, to be shared among all forms of life, remains the same. This situation imposes on humankind a responsibility to develop ethically sound systems of water governance."
--Mr. Koichiro Matsuura, Director General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Today is World Water Day. Coordinated this year by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), this annual event is devoted to increasing recognition of the many social and environmental issues surrounding freshwater resources. World Water Day 2006 directs focus to the significant link between water and culture--"Cultural traditions, indigenous practices, and societal values determine how people perceive and manage water in the world's different regions" (UNESCO)--bringing into focus the diverse ways in which water is incorporated into our lives and the need for international, inter-cultural solutions to preserve and increase access to freshwater.
Today also marks the culmination of the 4th World Water Forum, which has been convening for the past week in Mexico City. An initiative of the World Water Council, the forum presents an opportunity for multiple international stakeholders to engage one another in discussions of water issues and viable solutions to these issues, primarily through improved water policy.
These events highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management to current and future generations. As world population continues to climb, stresses on our available water resources increase. Approximately one billion people do not have clean, safe drinking water, the most basic and essential of human needs (see EarthTrends data). Assuming that current water consumption patterns continue unabated, projections show that at least 3.5 billion people—or 48 percent of the world's projected population—will live in water-stressed river basins in 2025 (Revenga, 2000). Those most affected by a lack of progress in effective water resources management are frequently poor and living in rural areas. However, water availability and use are also integral to industry and agriculture, making sound water management crucial to issues of health, political stability, economics, and the environment in both rich and poor countries.
Additional information available on EarthTrends:
Water Resources and Freshwater Ecosystems Data
Ask EarthTrends: Where can I find water use, water pollution, and/or water resources data?
Water Resources and Freshwater Ecosystems Features
Watersheds of the World: A Special Collection of River Basin Data
Additional sources of information:
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): Water
