22 Mar 2020  |   05:28am IST

Water and climate change

Molly Fernandes

Water, water everywhere, see it here, see it there… echoed in our ears as we splashed. Be it muddy on the streets or that which gushed from our spring!

World Water Day is held annually on March 22 as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This Day is an opportunity to learn more about water related issues, be inspired to tell others and take action to make a difference.

Relevant issues include water scarcity, water pollution, inadequate water supply, lack of sanitation, and the impacts of climate change. The day brings to light the inequality of access to wash services and the need to assure the human right to water and sanitation. The World Water Day website announces events, activities and volunteer opportunities. In 2020, featured stories are about adapting to the water effects climate change and using water more efficiently.

As we know that water is essential for life, without water we can’t survive. Up to 60% of the human adult body is water. All plants and animals need water to survive. If there was no water there would be no life on earth. With the increase in heat (climate), the dehydration in the body (water), its impact in the month of February was dangerous and hazardous to life. Goa being hot and humid a lot of water evaporates!

Therefore, it is necessary to understand that natural resources are important for sustaining life on earth. Do you know that approx 2.1 billion people live without safe drinking water at home which affects their health and livelihoods? With the climate change, environment and ecosystem affect and results into the water-crises. Due to floods, drought, water pollution; vegetation, soil, rivers and lakes are degrading.

UN-Water is the convener for World Water Day and selects the theme for each year in consultation with UN organisations that share an interest in that year's focus. The theme for 2020 is “Water and Climate Change” and explores how the two issues are inextricably linked

World Water Day 2020 is about water and climate change. The use of water will help reduce floods, droughts, scarcity and pollution, and will help fight climate change itself. By adapting to the water effects of climate change, we will protect health and save lives. And, by using water more efficiently, we will reduce greenhouse gases. World Water Day is an international observance day. The intention is to inspire people around the world to learn more about water-related issues and to take action to make a difference.

A few do’s that can make a difference

We cannot afford to wait. Climate policy makers must put water at the heart of action plans.

Climate change affects water supplies and human health.

Health systems need to prepare for more water-related disease associated with climate change.

Water can help fight climate change and protect health. There are sustainable, affordable and scalable water and sanitation solutions. Everyone has a role to play. In our daily lives, there are surprisingly easy steps we can all take to address climate change, and protect health.

Today, in light of the growing COVID-19 pandemic, the washing of hand and hygiene is given importance. Tomorrow when Goa runs short of water, the life line (Mandovi and Zuari) of the Goa State - Mhadei issue, are those responsible waiting for a plague, to clean the Mandovi River that stinks as one cannot pass without holding your nose… and the famous age old Fontainhas Creek? Save water, save climate, save life!


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