Water and Us

     Our planet has 67% water covering the surface, but only 1% is drinkable. Most of that 1% of water is frozen in icebergs and locked away in icy places way up north, leaving us a slim amount left over. Right now, 1 billion people lack a clean water source and by 2050 one third of our population may not have access to drinkable water as well. Also, one half of hospitalization diseases are water related, and Water.org says that 'The ancient Romans had better water quality than us'.

     People all over the world have been trying to help bring awareness to this global issue, such as the ECO who has been making very powerful environmental videos and messages about keeping our water clean. Annually, they encourage 1 billion people to actively protect the earth. Someone else who's been making a difference is Ryan Hreljac, a 19 year old boy, who started to raise money when he was just 7 for Water Wells in places where clean water was hard to get. He got enough money for his first Well in 1999, and has made many more since then. He still raises money for Wells and gives talks to kids about what they can do. The UNICEF has recognized him as a global youth leader.

     To help the problems of water safety be resolved, we need to spread the word. We can get the word out by sending ECO videos and telling people Ryan's story. Following Water.org on Facebook or becoming someone on their email list is one way to help yourself become more involved with the topic. One thing our class can do to help is be like Ryan and try to raise money from our friends, family, and ourselves. Together, we will be able to raise awareness and possibly raise enough money to build a Well of our own and maybe even save someone's life.