Happy World Water Day 2016!
Join us in celebrating World Water Day at North Saskatchewan Riverkeeper and learn more about how you can become a Canadian Water Leader!
What is World Water Day?
World Water Day is an international observance and an opportunity to learn more about water related issues, be inspired to tell others and take action to make a difference. World Water Day dates back to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development where an international observance for water was recommended. The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day. It has been held annually since then. Each year, UN-Water — the entity that coordinates the UN’s work on water and sanitation — sets a theme for World Water Day corresponding to a current or future challenge. The engagement campaign is coordinated by one or several of the UN-Water Members with a related mandate.
Better Water, Better Jobs
Today, almost half of the world's workers - 1.5 billion people - work in water related sectors and nearly all jobs depend on water and those that ensure its safe delivery. Yet the millions of people who work in water are often not recognized or protected by basic labour rights. The theme in 2016 — water and jobs — is focusing on how enough quantity and quality of water can change workers' lives and livelihoods - and even transform societies and economies. (Source: http://www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/about)
Become a Canadian Water Leader
With roughly 20% of the world's freshwater found in Canada, it's critical that Canadians do our part to safeguard this precious resource for future generations; it's critical that we all become Water Leaders in our communities. But how do we do it?The first step is to discover your Watermark, that powerful memory of a lived experience that's shaped your personal connection to water; that defines what water means to you.The next step is to become educated about your local watershed; learn where your drinking water comes from, what fish and wildlife share it with you.Once you've learned a bit more about your watershed, get out there and experience it! Jump in, take a swim, go for a paddle, get your fishing line wet and maybe catch some dinner! Make some memories on the water with your family and inspire the younger members to get involved too.If you're going to defend your watershed, you're going to need to know the rules: educate yourself on the laws and regulations that protect fish and water in your community. Participate in local decision making to make sure that your voice is heard.Finally, take an active role in protecting your watershed. Volunteer at a local cleanup or fundraising event, donate to a local organization that defends fish and water, devote your time on a board of directors or found a non-profit of your own.We all have what it takes to be a Water Leader. Take the first step and discover your Watermark today!You can also download this cool infographic outlining the six qualities of a Water Leader created by our amazing friends at Waterkeeper. 