Water is a complex and multifaceted resource that is often undervalued or under appreciated. From being treated as a commodity to being recognized as a human right and cultural resource, water has various roles in our lives that often go unnoticed. In this article, we will explore the different ways in which water is undervalued and why it is essential to recognize its true worth.
Water as a Commodity: An Infinite Resource or a Precious Commodity?
Water, like any other resource, is often commodified and sold to the highest bidder, resulting in unequal distribution and privatization of water supplies. According to Peter Gleick, a water expert, we treat water like an infinite resource when it is not. The increasing demand and pollution have led to two-thirds of the world’s population facing water scarcity by 2025, as per the World Bank.
This commodification of water has led to many issues, including the pollution of water sources and unequal distribution of water resources, leading to the current water crisis. Therefore, recognizing water as a precious resource and valuing it accordingly is crucial to address these issues.
Water as a Human Right: Access to Clean and Safe Drinking Water
Access to clean and safe drinking water is a basic human right as recognized by the United Nations. However, many communities worldwide, particularly Indigenous peoples, women, and children, lack access to this fundamental right. The discrimination, displacement, and inadequate infrastructure leave these groups more susceptible to water-borne diseases and sanitation-related issues.
Taking Maude Barlow, a water activist and author’s words, “Water is a basic human right, like food and shelter. Therefore, access to clean and safe drinking water should not be a privilege but a right for all.”
Water as a Cultural Resource: The Significance of Water in Indigenous Communities
Water holds a special place in the hearts of many communities worldwide, serving as a symbol of culture, spirituality, and life. For Indigenous peoples, water has a deeper meaning as they consider it a living entity that deserves utmost respect and protection.
Their systems of water governance prioritize the sustainable use of water, acknowledging its sacred status as a life-giving entity. Karen Bakker, a water governance expert, has said that recognizing the cultural value of water and working with Indigenous peoples to protect water resources is crucial.
Water as an Ecosystem Service: The Role of Water in Ecosystems
Water plays a crucial role in the functioning of ecosystems, providing habitats for aquatic animals and plants, regulating the temperature of the environment, and helping to filter pollutants. However, human activities such as agriculture, industry, and urbanization have led to the degradation of water ecosystems.
Recognizing the value of water ecosystems and working to restore them is crucial. According to Gretchen Daily, a biologist and ecosystem services expert, water is an ecosystem service that needs to be valued and protected.
Therefore, urgent action to address climate change and protect our water resources is crucial. To quote Sandra Postel, director of the Global Water Policy Project, “We need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase water efficiency, and invest in adaptation measures to build resilience to the impacts of climate change.”
Conclusion: Recognizing the True Value of Water
Life depends on water, hence its importance shouldn’t be overlooked or taken for granted. We have looked at several underestimated aspects of water throughout this essay, from treating it like a commodity to overlooking its significance as a cultural resource, ecosystem service, and contributor to climate change. By acknowledging the true value of water and taking action to safeguard and preserve it.
We can guarantee marginalized populations access to clean water by seeing water as a fundamental human right and working towards its sustainable use.
