“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water” – Benjamin Franklin
About 70 percent of the earth is water, but only 2.5 percent of that is freshwater. Of the freshwater, 68.9 percent is in the form of glaciers and snow cover, 30.8 percent is groundwater, and about 0.3 percent is in lakes and rivers.
South Africa’s second biggest city is going through one of the worst droughts in recent decades, with lack of rain and a surge in population rapidly depleting the municipal water reserves. In a few months, it could run out, bringing about what the city has apocalyptically dubbed “Day Zero”—when officials are forced to turn off the tap because there’s just not enough water left in the reservoirs to keep the system running.
If it happens, a city known for its rich and complex history, diverse population and lush national parks will start sending its four million residents to about 200 collection points, where each person will be allotted 25 litres of tap water per day. That’s just 10 litres more than the minimum amount the World Health Organization says people need to survive in an emergency.
If it happens, a city known for its rich and complex history, diverse population and lush national parks will start sending its four million residents to about 200 collection points, where each person will be allotted 25 litres of tap water per day. That’s just 10 litres more than the minimum amount the World Health Organization says people need to survive in an emergency.
Canada’s lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, hold 20 per cent of the world’s freshwater. With such richness comes responsibility to protect watersheds for the wildlife and people who rely on them.
Unfortunately, Canada’s freshwater ecosystems are in trouble. All 167 sub-watersheds are under stress and wildlife that rely on freshwater are under threat; native fish species in Lake Ontario dropped 32 per cent on average in the past 25 years.
Unfortunately, Canada’s freshwater ecosystems are in trouble. All 167 sub-watersheds are under stress and wildlife that rely on freshwater are under threat; native fish species in Lake Ontario dropped 32 per cent on average in the past 25 years.
Water is essential to life. Conservation of water bodies, from lakes to rivers and ponds to wetlands, is an important way we protect animals and plants. Many Canadians live near water and own waterfront property. Our love for water and waters ports is part of our national identity. Many of us even have a favourite lake or river where we can connect with the natural world. Nature Canada runs two water initiatives that help Canadians protect water and share their love for lakes and rivers.
