This Sunday, 26 August, the world will come together to discuss the future of our most precious resource, freshwater.
Discover more about its deep connection to all our lives, and why we must value rivers to ensure enough freshwater for people and nature.
Water is the world’s most precious resource. And while we're living on a blue planet, only 1% of water on earth is freshwater that is readily available for us to use!💧
But with soaring demand and the impact of climate change, billions could be facing water shortages, highlighting the urgent need for businesses, communities and individuals to do our part for our home.
After all, we depend on nature for everything.
Did you know that rivers are the lifeblood of our societies and economies?
They are often seen as simply sources of water and power, but healthy rivers benefit us in so many other ways. For example, did you know that the sediment that turns rivers muddy brown is critical to keeping deltas above sea level? These deltas are home to hundreds of millions of people and some of the world's richest agricultural land.
Rivers also support freshwater fisheries that feed tens of millions, help defend cities from floods, fertilise floodplains, and so much more! But when rivers are dammed or drained, and wetlands paved over, we lose many of these hidden benefits.
Today, nearly two-thirds of the world's population already face water shortages for at least one month each year.
Growing populations, soaring demand and climate change will only increase the pressure on the world's freshwater resources, underscoring the importance of protecting and restoring our rivers and wetlands.
The good news is that there is enough water for everyone if we all work together. This World Water Week, stay tuned and find out how WWF is striving to keep rivers and wetlands healthy and ensure there's enough water for both people and nature.
Become stewards of the world's water because without it, there is no business. Moreover, ensuring that we live within the capacity of our planet goes beyond just creating a “safe operating space” for society, it is at the heart of creating a future where every water user, including businesses and their customers, can thrive.
Discover more about WWF's work
Our mission is to stop the degradation of our planet's natural environment, and build a future in which people live in harmony with nature. Find out how we aim to achieve this through our nine global goals.
