When we think of water, we often think of its main uses. What often comes to mind, are its use to quench thirst, maintain hygiene, provide food, use in industries, support recreation etc. We seldom think of the huge role that water plays in terms of economics. Yet, without water, certain jobs would not be possible. While water impacts directly on some jobs e.g., fishermen, farmers, plumbers, cooks, etc., it is a fact that persons in any line of work require a safe water supply. A washroom in the workplace is often taken for granted, yet without water, it cannot not function, and without this facility, workers would be uncomfortable and not be productive at their jobs.
To emphasise the important role that water plays in jobs, the United Nations will celebrate, World Water Day, 2016, under the theme ‘Water and Jobs’. World Water Day is an annual celebration, on March 22, to raise awareness about a challenge facing global water resources. This year’s theme leads us to appreciate not only the fact that water is integral in supporting jobs, but also highlights the importance of the workers who ensure that the water keeps flowing. [box type=”shadow” align=”alignright” width=”250px” ]Want to know how much impact you have on water resources? Check out your water footprint at the following website: http://waterfootprint.org/en/resources/interactive-tools/personal-water-footprint-calculator/[/box]
Earth’s 7.4 billion people need clean water to support their lives. However, only 1% of Earth’s freshwater is available for the entire world to use. Further, the world’s water resources are not evenly distributed. In some parts of the world, people (mainly females) have to walk miles just to get a bucket of water, which is usually not 100% clean. Recognising the struggle for many of the world’s population in getting access to clean, potable water, a lot of effort has been put into improving water and sanitation around the globe. Much of this effort is spearheaded by the United Nations, but over the years, individuals have realised that the onus is on them as well. As such, people around the world are increasingly taking matters into their own hands to ensure a safe water supply in their area. As we celebrate World Water Day 2016, the EPA encourages you to think of putting in place innovative measures that will aid in safeguarding water in whatever job you do. You never know how far-reaching your impact can be in helping to achieve access to water and sanitation.
Here are some activities you can think about:

• Make your voice heard on social media;
• Think about what water means to you and make an artwork;
• Organise a debate in your school, university, community, office or organisation;
• Organise a concert or a play.
• Lobby your organisation to put in place a system that conserves water use.
• Practice water-saving habits.
• Report instances where you observe that the quality of water is compromised by leaks and breaks in the pipelines.

For stories and experiences on ‘Water and Jobs’ visit http://www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/ideas/en/.

Share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or you can contact the Agency on 225-5467-9.
Also check out our Facebook page, Environmental Protection Agency-Guyana.