World Water Day...

Happy World Water Day! World Water Day is all about raising awareness of the global water crisis. Yes it is true, Canada has an abundance of water. But that does not mean that we as Canadians can neglect the importance of this day. On average every Canadian uses 343 litres of water per day. We use about 1.5 times more water per capita than most European countries and significantly more than those in the developing world. Check out Peter Gleick's post on World Water Day focusing on water quality in Nairobi.

Chris and I delivered a presentation today in our global environmental policy class. The presentation was on a proposed international convention on water. We have done a tonne of research on the economic, political, social and environmental implications of such a convention. We looked at water as a human right, we explored water as an economic good and water as a property right.

Water is going to be increasingly more important to our planet in the 21st century. It has been fundamental to our existence and will be even more critical considering its dwindling supply due to population growth, climate change and creaking infrastructure. On an optimistic note, there has been a concomitant increase in education around the protection and preservation of water.

One of my thesis recommendations is for the City of Peterborough to have its own World Water Day. Stores such as Home Depot, Home Hardware and Canadian Tire would have a chance to present their latest water efficient technology solutions and encourage city residents to consider purchasing these products.

While Peterborough is fortunate to have an abundant supply of clean and affordable water, the event could raise funds to provide water to some of the most vulnerable populations on the earth. Therefore, the event would raise awareness of water resources both locally and globally. There can also be tours of the wastewater and water treatment plants. Such an opportunity may not be always available. It would provide the public with a much better understanding of the technical dimensions and challenges of water management in the city. This sort of an initiative can take place in any city.

The development of partnerships is integral to the success of World Water Day. Using the example of Peterborough, World Water Day could bring together Fleming College, Trent University, businesses, water-related stakeholders and other groups. This would allow for great potential in the formation of partnerships in promoting sound water practices. These partnerships may promote more effective water management and governance; provide education on the negative aspects of bottled water and information about the use of current technology in the area of water resources. Above all, it would present a networking opportunity for water professionals and student groups wishing to collaborate in a more fruitful and productive way.

Key message: World Water Day should be everyday. However, because it is formally on March 22nd, cities in Canada and abroad would benefit greatly from presenting information about the protection, preservation and ultimately the significance of water resources. As said, World Water Day is becoming more popular; however, ask yourself.... is my city doing anything on this day? Either way, be thankful that Canada provides safe, reliable, and affordable clean water and sanitation -something that 1.1 billion people in the world do not have the luxury of enjoying.