Today, the 22nd March, is World Water Day. The theme this year is ‘Why waste water?’
World Water Day is held annually to focus attention on the importance of freshwater and sustainable management of freshwater resources. The day was recommended at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) and the United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22nd March 1993 as the first World Water Day.
Whilst aimed worldwide at addressing a range of different water issues – from poor sanitation, over-exploitation of water resources and availability of safe drinking water – we should not be complacent in the UK and take our excellent water services for granted. With one third of the water that we use our homes quite literally flushed down the drain every day from the sink, toilet and shower, that is a waste!
Why not try to be more water efficient and not waste water? For example, simple changes in habits can help: turn off the tap when you brush your teeth; take a shorter shower; always use full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher; fix dripping taps; install a water butt to your drainpipe and use the water collected to water your plants, clean your car and wash your windows; and invest in water-efficient goods when you need to replace household products.
Likewise we need to respect our sewers – they are not a dustbin for various items and substances such as fat, nappies, tights and non-biodegradable wipes. These can all cause blockages leading to raw sewage entering homes and can kill fish in rivers. Think before you flush it!
So today make a difference on world water day – think before you use that precious resource and think again about what you discard to the sewer. Don’t take it for granted and try to change your habits and protect the environment. Dr Phil Aldous, Director of Water at Thomson Ecology, says, ‘We can all do our bit to help our own environment.’ More next month in Phil’s monthly water article that looks ahead to sewage discharges and environmental challenges for the UK for the next 20 years.
For more information on World Water Day, click here.
