World Water Day (WWD), is held annually on March 22nd. It’s about taking action to tackle the water crisis, this year’s theme is wastewater. Did you know there are 1.8 billion people who use a source of drinking water contaminated with faeces?
Water lies at the heart of everything that is important for human life. Clean, thriving water bodies are an integral part of nature, giving life to plants, animals and people.
Access to clean, safe drinking water is a basic human right, astonishingly though, today, there are over 663 million people living without a safe water supply close to home, spending countless hours queuing or trekking to distant sources, and coping with the health impacts of using contaminated water.
Water is also integral to the economy. Businesses use it to grow food, for industrial processes and for energy production. And their customers use it in conjunction with many of the goods and services they purchase.
Why should businesses take action on water?
Being aware of water issues is important, you may be wondering why water issues around the world can have an impact on your business. Well, it’s a crucial resource for everyone and WWD is all about raising awareness.
Here are our top three reasons why you should take action today:
To reduce costs – it’s a no brainer, managing water more efficiently will reduce the cost of water consumption, disposal and associated heating costs.
To develop resilience to water shortage – this poses as a real strategic risk to a number of companies. In some areas of the world, scarce water resources can lead to business disruption and brand damage.
To reduce carbon emissions – businesses need to take positive steps in reducing their carbon emissions. By better understanding the energy implications of heating or chilling water, you in return will learn how to cut not only carbon emissions but costs too.
Did you know?
- Over 80% of the wastewater generated by society flows back into the ecosystem without being treated or reused.
- 1.8 billion people use a source of drinking water contaminated with faeces. Unsafe water, poor sanitation and hygiene cause around 842,000 deaths each year.
- By 2050, close to 70% of the world’s population will live in cities, compared to 50% today.
- 663 million people still lack improved drinking water sources.
To learn more about World Water Day click here: http://www.worldwaterday.org/