World Water Day is March 22nd and this year’s theme is Valuing Water. It has us reflecting on how we use and protect water as a planet, as brands and as consumers.
The United Nations has developed sustainable development goals (SDG), a set of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a "blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all". Number 6 is water and sanitation for all. As stated, “SDG 6 seeks to ensure safe drinking water and sanitation for all, focusing on the sustainable management of water resources, wastewater and ecosystems, and acknowledging the importance of an enabling environment.”
How are we doing?
There is a rising demand for clean water. Today, there are 2.2 billion people globally who don’t have safe access to drinking water. And yet, the water supply continues to be stressed with agricultural pollutants contributing to pressures on our ground water. Supply chain management can support better water practices. Digital transformation is also opening new doors — by capturing more precise data, innovators can help develop more impactful solutions.
Consumers are motivated stakeholders
Shifts in climate, cultural values and digital tools have consumers playing a more active role. There is a rising demand for transparency, environmental protection, and sustainable action by brands. And increasingly, consumers are willing to pay more for brands that engage in good.
Changemakers are transforming approaches
Brands are transforming their water practices in big ways. Forward-thinking brands commit to long-term sustainability goals, partner with suppliers to enact change throughout the supply chain, and organize teams to align the organization around sustainable frameworks, metrics and communications.
Related: Socially responsible brands can boost brand value by up to 30%.
Communities are working at the grassroots level, led by indigenous water protectors, to defend natural resources while holding companies accountable to environmental implications from their efforts. Environmental Initiative has developed a Source Water Protection Collaborative to bring diverse groups and perspectives together to build coalitions to support and protect our water resources locally.
Related: Black changemakers in agriculture and community are using regenerative practices to support earth justice.
Women leaders are working together to create a better future for all. Women for Water Partnership is a global organization bringing together women leaders from 134 countries in the areas of water and sanitation, sustainable development, women’s participation and empowerment. Know a woman who is leading change in better water practices? Nominations are open for this year’s Women in Water award.
Related: St. Anthony Falls Laboratory is capturing data locally to better understand, conserve and protect our local waters.
At Mindsailing, we believe water is an essential element. Protecting our water, committing to better practices and championing the message of Valuing Water is essential for any future-focused organization.
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