The first World Water Day was held on March 22, 1993 and each year, events are held on the anniversary as recommended by the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED).
 
"Many people, especially here in the U.S., are unaware that drought is the single most common cause of food shortages around the world," said Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co. "Further, drought caused more deaths during the last century than any other natural disaster."
 
This is why one of the UN's goals for World Water Day is for countries and people around the world to better understand water-related issues and the challenges population growth, industrialization in emerging countries, conflicts, natural disasters, wasteful uses of water, and climate change have on the world's potable (drinkable) water supplies.
 
Additionally, the UN hopes that World Water Day will encourage more nations, organizations, communities, and individuals around the world to use water more responsibly and efficiently.
 
"Water is used for all human activities," says Reichardt, "from cooking, cleaning, and washing to the production of food, paper, clothing, and even cars. In a sense, it is water, not oil, that keeps the world's engines and economies moving."
 
Last year more than 800 events were held in honor of World Water Day. A similar number, if not more, are expected this year.
 
For more information on World Water Day and how to get involved in a "Worldwide [Water] Event," visit http://www.unwater.org/.