World Water Day - March 22, 2013
Since 1993, the United Nations General Assembly has designated March 22nd of each year as World Water Day (WWD) to recognize the importance of water as a basic requirement of life and the need to manage this precious resource wisely. The main purpose of the day is to promote public awareness of the need to conserve and protect fresh water supplies and to encourage people around the world to promote and carry out activities related to the use and care of water resources.
Ryan's Well is committed to supporting World Water Day each year. As they say in Africa, “water is life!”
 2013 - This year's theme: Water Cooperation - aims to raise awareness, both on the potential for increased cooperation and on the challenges facing water management in light of the increase in demand for water access, allocation and services. |
 2012 - The 2012 theme of Water & Food Security aims to educate about the need to cope with population growth and chronic hunger while also preserving water resources already under pressure. With most of the water we "drink" embedded in the food we eat, it's increasingly important that we take steps to consume less water-intensive products and reduce food wastage. |
 2011 - This year's objective is to focus international attention on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems. |
 2010 – UN-Water dedicated World Water Day 2010 to the theme of water quality, reflecting its importance alongside quantity of the resource in water management. |
 2009 – In 2009, the theme for World Water Day is "Shared Water - Shared Opportunities". Special focus will be placed on transboundary waters. Nurturing the opportunities for cooperation in transboundary water management can help build mutual respect, understanding and trust among countries and promote peace, security and sustainable economic growth. |
 2008 - Did you know that over 2.6 billion people across the globe lack access to basic sanitation. In 2008, the day highlighted issues on sanitation in accordance with the International Year of Sanitation. People around the world were encouraged to celebrate the day to draw attention to the world’s sanitation challenge. |
 2007 - The 2007 theme, Coping with Water Scarcity, highlighted the significance of cooperation and importance of an integrated approach to water resource management at both international and local levels. Equity and rights, cultural and ethical issues are essential to be addressed when dealing with limited water resources. |
How can you mark World Water Day?
- Start your own fundraising initiative. Our FREE resources can help you get started.
- Learn why sustainability is so important to safe water access!
- Learn more about the impacts of safe water and sanitation.
- Learn more about our current Active Projects
Then, be sure to share your actions with everyone you know!