This World Water Day, business groups and municipalities are calling to rethink the use of our vital freshwater resources and build resilience through a restorative blue economy. It is time to change paradigm and perspective. Let us recognize the urgency and unparalleled potential that our waters offer, a pathway to reinvigorate economies and promote climate resilience.
The United Nations has sounded the alarm: demand for fresh water will exceed supply by 40% over the next decade. This shortage endangers not only our ecosystems, but also our health, our economic vitality and our security across the continent.
Yet, amidst these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope and opportunity. The principle of the blue economy promises a powerful solution. We can develop a sustainable model that harnesses our water resources to drive economic growth, protect the environment and strengthen national security.
We must recognize that our economy relies on fresh water, whether it is the billion-dollar fishing, recreation and tourism sectors, industries that use this resource as a primary input, or businesses who innovate in its use. Imagine if we invested in better management of our water and how many jobs we could create while improving our quality of life and our environment. Wouldn’t it be nice to know that your lake or river is free of microplastics, invasive species, or toxic substances? Fortunately, many entrepreneurs, organizations, alliances and nonprofits are taking this challenge to heart and putting clean water first.
AquaAction has created more than 250 jobs in the blue economy, generated more than $150 million in annual revenue, helped secure $40 million in investment, and supported a diverse community of cleantech entrepreneurs, a range of more than 80 active companies.
Drawing on the collective strength and commitment of more than 250 municipalities, the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Alliance serves as a model for local governments to propose solutions to global problems. This coalition builds resilient communities through collaboration to protect our shared economic and environmental future. The Cities Alliance and its members believe that better water management will lead to economic transformation and greater resilience.
Protecting fresh water is essential to maintaining our way of life. The shortages we are seeing on this continent show that we are on the edge of the precipice. Water will increasingly be a source of conflict if we do not anticipate what happens next. By prioritizing this resource for its environmental benefits and vital role in the economy, we can avoid irreversible damage to what nourishes every aspect of our lives.
As we celebrate World Water Day, let’s recognize the need to redefine our approach to water in North America. It is time to view the threat of shortage as a unique opportunity to innovate for sustainable growth. Join AquaAction and the Alliance of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities to rethink our vision of water and enhance its economic potential.