Water is one of the basic necessities for each and every living creature on this planet. From microorganisms to humans, water is essential to survive. Yet, about 700 Million people around the world do not have access to clean drinking water.

Why do we need SDG 6?

Lately, with the industrial revolution and globalization, water bodies across the planet have been polluted with waste and hazardous chemicals. Large water bodies such as oceans have become a dumping yard for all the human waste. This not only affects the marine ecosystem, but also has an adverse effect on the climate on land.

The constant oil mining in water bodies have resulted in major oil spill accidents, driving several marine organisms to their extinction.

What are the Targets of the goal?

The United Nations addresses the issue of Water Conservation and Sanitation in its SDG no. 6.

The goal targets to achieve universal and equitable access to clean drinking water and affordable sanitation facilities for all. It aims to end open defecation paying special attention to the needs of women, girls and those in vulnerable situations. The goal also promotes the idea of efficient usage of water across all sectors of industries. It also aims to prevent water and land pollution to improve the availability of fresh water.

What can we do?

We could contribute to achieve this goal by going plastic free and switching to a sustainable lifestyle. We could pick up dirt and waste littered on beaches, sea shores and mountains; while it might not be our waste, it definitely is our planet.

If you are a student or a teacher and would like to be involved in activities like park, beach or mountain cleanups, you could approach the outreach department of your college.

You could up the initiative individually and ask those around you to join in. Raise awareness about water conservation and water scarcity, donate organizations that conduct these cleanup activities.

Participate in events organized to raise funds for these causes, endorse the events and the cause. Every year, WACC – a student association of St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Bengaluru organize a run to raise awareness about water conservation called “Neerathon“. They raise funds to provide better drinking water facilities in rural areas of the state.

These are a few ways in which we could help conserve and protect the precious resource. Let us join in and help protect the planet and ecosystem before it is too late.

 

 

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