Water For All

Every policy, strategy, or activity that aims at the sustainable management of water for the protection of the hydrosphere and in order to meet the demands for water in the present and the future are collectively called water conservation. Growth, affluence, population all influence the amount of water that is to be used. Pressure on the present natural water resources has considerably increased due to factors such as climate change increases the importance of water conservation. Many countries have already implemented laws and policies to ensure water conservation. Dams and water harvesting are examples of ways water can be conserved and put to good use.

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Facts About Water

The 22^nd of March is celebrated as world water day every year to show the importance of water and the importance of water conservation. Some facts about water are:

• Water constitutes 78 % of the earth, while land covers the rest.

• The human body is composed of 60 percent water, whereas a Jellyfish is over 95 percent water.

• Most of the water (97 percent) is saline.

• percent of the water available is fresh drinking water that can be consumed by humans.

• Most of the freshwater on earth (69 percent) is trapped in glaciers.

Importance of Water

The present theory which is accepted by scientists’ states that life had originated from water; thus, water is, in fact, a necessity for organisms to grow and survive. Water is an essential part of living beings, and the water lost from the human body needs to be appropriately replenished to ensure its proper functioning. We need water for everyday tasks such as washing, cleaning, bathing and most of all, for drinking. Farming, industries, and hospitals also need a regular supply of water. The evaporation and condensation of water give rise to the water cycle, which is essential in the sustenance of life on earth. The importance of water can be further understood by taking a look at the various functions of water in our bodies. Water forms the blood plasma and acts as the saliva, which helps to digest food and also helps in the excretion and transportation of nutrients in our body.

Ways to Save Water

The importance of water conservation is widely recognized all over the globe with the increasing instances of water shortage ravaging countries. Dams and water harvesting are beneficial in the water conservation process. 

Dams

Dams are beneficial in water conservation. Dams not only help to store water but are also used in the generation of hydroelectricity. Dams also help to prevent floods and also provide water during times of drought. Hence, dams are vital and useful for agriculture. Water also helps in providing drinking water for all in regions where water is scarce. Dams can also be used in developing reservoirs that can be used for agricultural and other purposes. However, dams also cause the displacement of local tribes and lead to loss of livelihood and shelter for the local people. Dams may also adversely affect the geology and the ecosystem while being a financial burden for the country.

Water Harvesting

Water harvesting is the term used for the collection of excess/runoff rainwater for other purposes. It is made sure that the water collected is free from any pollutants and can be obtained from various sources. Water harvesting ensures that rainwater does not flow away but is put to good use. Rooftop rainwater harvesting and surface rainwater harvesting can be used to recharge the groundwater and help in water conservation. Water harvesting reduces the likelihood of droughts and floods while also ensuring a steady supply of freshwater for drinking and other household activities.

Did You Know?

In India, rainwater harvesting is a practice that has been going on for more than 4000 years. The process is quite simple since it involves the accumulation of rainwater and its storage. This practice has been carried on from ancient times to provide drinking water as well as water for livestock and irrigation. Tamil Nadu was the first state to make rain harvesting compulsory for all buildings to combat the rapid depletion of groundwater. 

Solved Examples

1. What are some ways of saving water?

Answer: Some simple ways to save water are repairing leaking taps, taking a bucket bath instead of a shower, using water judiciously, and using rooftop rainwater harvesting for water conservation.

Conservation of Water

Water is a need in our daily lives. Every time you use water, you have the option of conserving it both inside and outside your home. It's critical to remember that water conservation should be practiced all of the time, not only when there's a water shortage. Wise water management can reduce the amount of stress placed on our resources by limiting water withdrawals and lowering wastewater distribution. Water conservation reduces the wear and tear on valuable resources such as water and wastewater treatment plants, as well as the distribution systems that deliver water to the general population.

We can be more flexible during times of water constraint if we use less water. With rising population rates and only a small percentage of the world's water suitable for human consumption, it's only reasonable that we should safeguard and preserve this precious resource. Because we all rely on water to survive, we owe it to future generations to learn more about water conservation and how we can help keep our water supplies clean and safe. 

Conservation of Water at Home

• Water should not be wasted. Leaking taps should be repaired, and all taps should be shut while not in use.

• In order to perform correctly, hand pumps must be well-maintained.

• The condition of the above storage tanks should be maintained. PVC tanks are preferred over metal tanks because they are less expensive, lighter, and do not corrode or rust.

• Rainwater can be collected and stored for domestic purposes. 

Conservation of Water by the Community 

• During the summer, canals, tanks, and other structures must be desilted on a regular basis.

• To maintain tanks, people should be urged to revive the age-old habit of planting trees around them. Forests should be planted around villages and along riverbanks, and rivers should be kept sacred.

• Afforestation of barren, hilly slopes on a war footing should be carried out 

Tips for Saving Water

• Tighten up the faucets. Repair leaking taps, faucets, pipes, and other fixtures as quickly as possible, and regularly inspect them for leakage.

• You may check for leaks in your toilet tank by putting a drop of food coloring in the cistern. If the color begins to appear in the bowl after it has been flushed, you have a leak that must be addressed immediately.

• When brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands, never leave the tap running.

• Don’t use the shower.  A pail of water is plenty for a bath.

• Wash the fruits, vegetables, and meat in a dish of water.