The Nexus Between 'Water and Jobs'
Water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival itself. It is vital for reducing the global burden of disease and improving the health, welfare and productivity of populations. It is central to the production and preservation of a host of benefits and services for people. Water is also at the heart of adaptation to climate change, serving as the crucial link between the climate system, human society and the environment.
Today, almost half of the world's workers - 1.5 billion people - work in water related sectors and nearly all jobs depend on water and those that ensure its safe delivery. Yet the millions of people who work in water are often not recognized or protected by basic labour rights. The theme in 2016 - water and jobs (which is further interpreted as "better water, better jobs") - is focusing on how enough quantity and quality of water can change workers' lives and livelihoods - and even transform societies and economies.
In addition, it will provide an important opportunity to consolidate and build upon the previous World Water Days to highlight water's role in the sustainable development agenda through jobs creation.
Tim Geers