Earth is 70% water, the human body is 60% water – both fun facts are invariably true, except today there are more people on the planet striving to access this basic need: water. What changed? Well, the climate is different (i.e., less precipitation in some regions, and excessive rainfall in others); and then there’s the way water is handled in some places. There is contaminated water and an unequal distribution of resources to clean it. Wealthier countries tend to consume more water, and the fast fashion industry alone is a huge source of consumption and pollution. Worse is that there are things like pharmaceutical drugs, feces, microplastics in unclean water and at least 2 billion people being exposed to it daily. Those affected most are low-income.
Clean water and access to it are essential for a well-nourished life. It supports farming practices, safety, and greater well-being. Without it, people are at increased risk for chronic diseases, malnutrition, and food insecurities. Being hydrated improves mental clarity, regulates body temperature, and helps prevent infections, to name a few. Here are some ways to support clean water distribution overall:
- Evaluate your lifestyle habits and determine where you can limit water waste (ex. time spent in the shower, washing dishes, or gardening)
- Track your water intake to achieve optimal hydration daily (of course there are apps for that, old-fashioned pen and paper, or health journal bracelets by Chelsea Charles Jewelry)
- Avoid disposing of old medications or pesticides down the drain
Use drinking water filters, and consider shower filters in especially hard water areas - Avoid leaving plastic bottled water in your car in warmer weather or stored in warm areas in effort to prevent microplastic leaching into the water
- Educate yourself on local resources where you can learn more and get involved
#myjam: room temperature water. Always.
References
Wolfe, D. (2021). Clean water: what happens to humans without it? Retrieved from https://www.worldvision.ca/stories/clean-water/clean-water-facts-impact-future
World Health Organization (2022). Drinking water fact sheets. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/drinking-water