According to the World Health Organisation, for every $1 invested in water and sanitation, there is an economic return between $3 and $34. That’s an incredible return on investment! How has water become so profitable? Well, here is the equation: the explosive growth of the world’s population combined to industrial pollution and climate changes are making water a scarce commodity. From its current 7 billion, the world’s population will hit 10 billion by 2050. China and India are leading the way by adding to the next generation respectively 100 million and 600 million Earth inhabitants. Africa’s population will rise to 2.5 billion in 2050 according to United Nations projections. These numbers are as scary as the pressure for more water that they represent. It is important to remember that 70% of the world’s water use is for agriculture and 15% is used for energy.

WHO stated that 2 billion people worldwide lack safe water. So efficiency in water management is crucial. The Postman institute for climate impact research studied the impact of international trade of food crops on the availability of fresh water. Their results are striking: 1 kg of cereal produced in Morocco costs 2700L of water while in Germany, it will cost only 570L. The solutions for effective water management exist but they are not accessible to all. In many cases, we observe the perpetuation of the economic inequities within and among countries. The industrial pollution and climate change are intrinsically related: pollution damages ecosystems, contaminates rivers, seas, and oceans. Damaged ecosystems behave unpredictably: rain patterns are modified, natural disasters are multiplied and the costs in lives always exceed our best guess. So what can we do about it?

The WHO launched a program for the next decade. It is called: “Water for sustainable development 2018-2028” The scope is to advance sustainable development, energise existing water programs and inspire action. We should all take actions now in our homes.  To turn off the tap, while we brush our teeth. To use a bucket, when we wash our hair. To mindfully cut any water waste. Every little action counts. Raising awareness around us about the water challenges that we are all facing is the beginning of positive change. Water is more than a commodity, it is essential to our life. Our blue planet takes her name from it. We should all consciously choose to preserve life on Earth both for our survival and for the generations to come.

At ADILA, we believe that human health, beauty, and survival are intrinsically connected to our impact on the Planet Earth who host us. Our intention is to raise awareness and induce a positive behaviour that will ensure a sustainable use of the resources available. How will you save water ?

With much love,

Adila