“We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.” — Jacques Cousteau
Water constitutes life on planet and is essential for our survival. It is important to understand that although water covers two-thirds of this planet, not all of it is fit for consumption. Freshwater – which is the only form of water that can be used for drinking, agriculture, and industry – constitutes only 3% of the world’s water. Around 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to water, and 2.7 billion people find water scarce for at least one month of the year.
Pakistan is in the midst of a serious water crisis. Reportedly, only 20% of the country has access to safe drinking water. Discarding industrial and domestic waste in rivers and lakes has been identified as the culprit for this dilemma and is responsible for water-borne diseases such as diarrhea. Furthermore, climate change is shifting the patterns of weather and water, leading to droughts in some areas and floods in others.
We must play our part in conserving water. We can start by preserving leftover water, taking short showers, turning off the water tap while brushing teeth, and washing clothes and utensils. We should avoid discarding waste in rivers and lakes. There’s life in the sea and it is our responsibility to preserve it! Water is a form of mercy that sustains life. It is, therefore, our obligation to conserve it.
Remember, Every DROP Counts!