Today is World Water Day, an annual observance day that highlights the importance of fresh water. Water is a finite resource and it is vital for the health of humans and our environments, yet globally billions of people face water-related challenges.
This year’s theme is ‘leaving no one behind’, addressing the reasons why so many people face difficulties accessing safe water resources. This is important in order to advance Sustainable Development Goal number six which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, by 2030.
To mark the occasion, we interviewed UNESCO Chair of Water Science Professor David Hannah for our latest #AskTheGeographer podcast. The podcast also features as part of a wider series of resources and events to mark World Water Day, with the University of Birmingham hosting a day of presentations and discussions on the newest developments in water science, policies and industries.
Professor David Hannah said, “World Water Day 2019 upholds the principle that access to safe water is a basic human right for everyone, everywhere. This podcast explains how we are tackling the water crisis and how our research is helping to promote availability and sustainable management of water for all. We are bringing together researchers from a range of disciplines (science, engineering, social sciences, arts and humanities), policy makers and the public to raise awareness of water security and global water-related issues, and to ensure we hear a range of voices in our efforts to ‘leave no one behind’.”
You can listen to the podcast below, and subscribe to future episodes here.
Find out more about water security.
Take a look at our Water Diaries resources.