World Water Day 2011

Today is World Water Day, a day of awareness started by the United Nations in 1993. Water is something that so many of us in the United States don't really think about.  We've always had clean water and have never thought about what it might be like if we didn't.  We live in one of the few places in the world where the kitchen faucet reliably produces safe, clean water for drinking, cooking and bathing.  But not everyone is so lucky. 

What can we do to help?  Well, for starters we can change small habits at home.  Here are some ideas:

• Only turn the faucet on half-way instead of full blast
• Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or washing your face
• Turn off the hose if you have to go inside for something
• Don't linger in the shower
• Use leftover water from cups or pots to water plants or rinse other dishes
• Adjust your automatic sprinklers when there's been rainfall

How is that going to help?  Many places must import water from other communities because of overuse.  Southern California is a prime example of that.  Being wasteful causes us to seek water from Northern California and even Arizona, a process which consumes tons of energy.  If there were ever problems with those aqueducts we would be in serious trouble.

There are so many ways to conserve.  If you already have great conservation habits at home and would like to go bigger, consider making a donation to an organization that builds wells or rainwater collection systems in other countries.  Here are a few options:

• African Well Fund
• The Water Project
• Water Wells for Africa
• Compassion International

Today, when you drink a glass of water, remind yourself that you're one of the lucky few.  Spread the word and talk to friends and family about helping with a donation.  Every drop counts!