Blog: World Water Day: A Call for Sustainable Water Management

by | March 19, 2025 | ESPC Announcements

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Written by Tahmina Rahman, ESPC Volunteer
Tahmina Rahman is a policy analyst and healthcare professional with 3+ years in government roles. She specializes in policy development, program implementation, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis. Holding an MBBS degree, she has experience in healthcare policy, digital health, quality assurance, project management, and budget planning.

Every year on March 22nd, people around the globe come together to observe World Water Day. Established by the United Nations in 1993, this day serves to highlight the significance of freshwater and the need for sustainable water management. It also brings attention to the fact that billions of people still lack access to clean and safe water. With increasing concerns about climate change, pollution, and rising water demand, World Water Day reminds us of the urgent need for fair and sustainable water access (United Nations, 2023).

Water is essential for life, yet millions worldwide still struggle to obtain clean drinking water (World Health Organization, 2022). Rapid population growth and industrial expansion have intensified water scarcity, making it a pressing global issue. World Water Day encourages international collaboration to tackle water crises and ensure secure access to water for both present and future generations (UN-Water, 2023).

2025 Theme: Preserving Glaciers for Future Generations

Each year, UN-Water selects a theme for World Water Day. In 2025, the focus is ‘Glacier Preservation.’

Glaciers play a crucial role in supplying freshwater, supporting agriculture, generating energy, and sustaining ecosystems. However, rising global temperatures are causing glaciers to melt at an alarming rate, disrupting water supplies and threatening both human and environmental stability. Immediate action is needed to curb carbon emissions and implement adaptive measures at the local level. This year’s theme urges global efforts to prioritize glacier conservation in addressing climate change and water security challenges.

Key Takeaways for World Water Day 2025

  1. Glaciers are shrinking rapidly. Climate change is accelerating glacial melt, leading to unpredictable and extreme shifts in the water cycle.
  2. Glacial loss has severe consequences. Billions of people depend on glacial meltwater, and its disruption can cause floods, droughts, landslides, and rising sea levels, endangering ecosystems and communities.
  3. Glacier conservation is essential for sustainability. Addressing this issue requires collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and manage water resources responsibly.
  4. Stronger policies and governance are necessary. Governments must enforce regulations that promote water conservation and equitable distribution (Global Water Partnership, 2023).

In Edmonton, the primary source of drinking water is the North Saskatchewan River, which begins at the Columbia Icefield and travels 1,287 kilometers, collecting water from streams and runoff along the way. This water undergoes an extensive treatment process to ensure it is safe and clean for consumption. Edmonton’s tap water is considered some of the safest to drink in the world, thanks to the city’s high-quality water treatment systems. While the river receives some water from glaciers, climate change presents challenges. Increased rainfall can lead to more sediment and organic materials entering the river, which could affect the quality of the water.

To mark World Water Day, TELUS World of Science Edmonton is hosting an event titled “Glaciers & Water & Dolphins, oh my!!,” where visitors can explore the relationship between glaciers, water, and the environment. Additionally, Alberta’s Watershed Councils will be hosting a free online webinar on March 21, 2025, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. MDT, discussing the effects of melting glaciers on water and strategies for their preservation.

How Individuals Can Make an Impact

While large-scale policies and global initiatives are crucial, individuals can also contribute to water conservation by:

  • Using water efficiently and minimizing waste.
  • Supporting organizations are dedicated to clean water access.
  • Educating others on the importance of sustainable water practices.
  • Participating in local environmental initiatives and advocating for stronger water protection policies.

World Water Day is a reminder that water is a vital resource that must be protected. By taking action now, we can help create a future where everyone has access to clean and safe water. This March 22nd, let’s commit to safeguarding this invaluable resource for ourselves and for generations to come.

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