World Water Day: Protecting our most precious resource
Published:Sunday | March 23, 2025 | 10:04 PM
World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, is a United Nations initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of freshwater and advocating for its sustainable management.
With 2.2 billion people worldwide lacking access to clean water and sanitation, this day serves as a call to action to ensure water and sanitation for all by 2030 – a key aim of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.
Jamaica, like many Caribbean nations, faces water scarcity, contamination, and climate-related challenges such as droughts and rising sea levels. Protecting the island’s freshwater sources is essential for public health, agriculture, tourism, and economic growth.
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE GLOBAL WATER CRISIS
• 2.2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water.
• Nearly half of the global population experiences water scarcity at least one month per year.
• Around 80 per cent of wastewater is discharged into the environment untreated.
• Agriculture accounts for 70 per cent of global freshwater withdrawals, making sustainable farming essential.
• Climate change is worsening droughts, floods, and water shortages, affecting millions each year.
WATER ISSUES IN JAMAICA
• Frequent droughts – Climate change has led to longer dry spells, especially in southern and central Jamaica, affecting water availability.
• Deforestation threatens water sources – Illegal logging and land clearing reduce natural watershed protection.
• Pollution from waste and agriculture – Chemicals, sewage, and plastic waste contaminate rivers, underground water, and coastal areas.
• Aging infrastructure and leaks – Water loss from outdated pipes affects supply reliability.
• Over-extraction of groundwater – Increased demand, particularly in urban areas like Kingston and Montego Bay, puts stress on underground water reserves.
HOW WE CAN CONSERVE AND PROTECT WATER
• Fix leaks and use water efficiently – Report broken pipes to the National Water Commission (NWC) and use rainwater collection where possible.
• Protect forests and watersheds – Replant trees and support conservation efforts in places like the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park.
• Practise water-smart habits – Take shorter showers, turn off taps when brushing teeth and washing dishes, and use water-efficient appliances.
• Reduce pollution – Dispose of waste properly and avoid using harmful chemicals near rivers and beaches.
• Support sustainable food choices – Reducing meat consumption can lower your water footprint.
• Engage in community water projects – Participate in initiatives improving water access, such as Rural Water Supply Ltd projects.
• Raise awareness – Educate others about Jamaica’s water challenges and advocate for policies that protect resources.
• Harvest rainwater – Install rainwater collection systems at homes, schools, farms and businesses, to reduce reliance on piped water.
• Recycle water – Reuse household water when possible, such as using laundry rinse water for cleaning or dishwater for watering plants.
Every drop counts! This World Water Day, let’s take action to ensure a clean, reliable water supply – for Jamaica, for the world, and for future generations.