When you look out to sea it is hard to appreciate that water is our most precious resource.

But only 1% of the earth’s water is suitable for consumption. And the amount of freshwater we have today is roughly the same amount we had a thousand years ago, and the same as the water we will have in a thousand years time.

Human health is directly linked to the health of the environment, by looking after the environment we are looking after ourselves. Water enables us to enjoy a good quality of life. We use water in our homes, for agriculture, for industry and for recreation.

Water is not just important for our needs, but also to support the environment. All living things – humans, plants and animals need water to survive.

Global water consumption has risen ten-fold since 1900. Many areas of the world are now reaching the limits of their supply. UNESCO has predicted that by 2020 water shortage will be a serious world problem.

It is obvious that we cannot increase demands for water much more without detrimental effects to the environment, society and the economy. It’s time to become more water efficient!

This means reassessing our relationship with water and learning to use it more sparingly. On the most basic level, it requires a behavioural change, and assigning a value to water that truly reflects its worth.

More Information
Save Water – Global and National perspective on water
Environment Australia Inland Waters
Reporting on our state’s water resources
What can I do to help? Tips to keep water clean
What can I do to help? Tips to conserve water
Clean Water Resources