Clean water-key for preservation of health

We mark the World Water Day on March 22, and the special circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemics remind us of the importance of water for the preservation of health and saving lives. Since hand hygiene (which we are constantly reminded to practice regularly) is the key for limiting the spread of COVID-19 and many other infectious diseases, now is the right moment to become aware of how important it is to have an adequate supply of clean water to protect ourselves, our loved ones and the community.

This year’s topic is dedicated to connecting climate change and water protection, and its motto “We cannot afford to wait. Everyone has a role to play.” is as appropriate as it can be.

Very often, we are not aware that water protection and climate change are inextricably linked in more ways than obvious. The melting of ice on polar caps raises sea levels and threatens many cities and ecosystems, primarily in river deltas, but at the same time threatens to release huge amounts of carbon dioxide “trapped” in deposits that were once, erroneously, considered to be perpetual ice. The flora of the sea and the ocean absorbs more CO2 than the Amazon rainforest, and we find almost daily that the causes, but also the consequences, of a delicate natural balance are more comprehensive and far-reaching than those “apparent at first glance”.

Although the responsibility for the largest pollution lies in the domain of the international community, it does not amnesty us from failing to do so on a company and personal level. Ericsson Nikola Tesla and its partners carry out a series of activities, such as WaterQ project, that are related to the research of ICT applicability in collection of data and increase of information transparency related to the water status. This also includes evaluation of risks related to the impact of water quality on public health and water ecosystems.

There are also plenty of ways on how to act as individuals. Now when we spend more time indoors with our children and other household members, it is the right time to lead by example. A more caring attitude towards the environment-from choosing eco-friendlier household hygiene and cleaning products to closing the tap when we really don’t need the water to be running-is a personal responsibility and a potential contribution by every one of us to having a more secure future for all.

So, #SafeHands on #WorldWaterDay (but please don’t forget to turn off the tap!)

Ericsson Nikola Tesla Communications