Kimberly Hall | February 25, 2020
International World Water Day is observed on March 22. This day brings awareness to the importance of freshwater and sustainable management of freshwater resources. On this day everyone is encouraged to learn more about water related issues and take action to make a difference. Humans need water to survive, as do all systems we rely on, including sanitation, healthcare, education, business and industry.
This year the theme is climate change, showing how water and climate change are linked. It highlights the urgent importance of strengthening water security and establishing access to a sustainable water supply in the face of changing climate conditions worldwide. Climate delay is almost as dangerous as climate denial. Extreme weather events are making water scarce, more unpredictable and more polluted. Using water more efficiently will reduce greenhouse gases. The UN-Water Policy Brief on Climate Change and Water explains more on why action plans to tackle climate change need to be integrated across different sectors and coordinated across borders.
Around the world, there are already projects for sustaining and managing water resources being put into action. Ecuador’s National Water Secretariat collaborated with the Peruvian National Water Authority and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to make sure homes have increased quality of life with the constructions of basic sanitary units in each of their homes. The projects include the constructions, rehabilitation and upgrading of drinking water and wastewater treatment systems, and the implementation of basic sanitary units. The aim is to promote integrated water resource management, control pollution from multiple sectors and to increase access to water in the watersheds. According to data from the United Nations, 80% of global wastewater is discharged into water without proper treatment. Untreated wastewater released in surface waters (lakes, rivers and oceans) causes problems affecting ecosystems and people’s health.
World Water Day Activities and Lesson Plans
Activities
- A Splash of Water Knowledge
- Impact of the Water Cycle
- It is raining!
- Water Pollution
- Clean Water Using the Sun
- How Much Water? Game
- Investigate the use of Water in Your Home
- Raindrop Suncatchers
Worksheets
Coloring Pages
Lesson Plans
- How People Get Their Water
- Water Contaminants
- Human Need for Water
- Water Contaminant Removal Methods
- Water Purification
Units
- Global Water Supply Unit – Elementary School
- Global Water Supply Unit – Middle School
- Global Water Supply Unit – High School
For more World Water Day lesson plans and activities visit teacher planet.
For more information about World Water Day and the projects being put into place around the world for sustaining and maintaining water resources visit https://www.worldwaterday.org/.