Mizu

Mizu is Japanese for "water."


And today is World Water Day!

Unfortunately, the image I'm associating with water these days is that of the tsunami - and the cars, buildings and people it took with it.

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan.

Ironically, this year's WWD theme is Water for Cities:  Responding to the Urban Challenge.

Challenge?  What challenge?  Getting your Klean Kanteen through airport security?


Not exactly.


Did you know that for the first time in history, most of the world's population now live in cities?


I found that staggering.  Well, maybe not. I t feels that way when I'm in Times Square or on Canal Street.


New York has definitely become more crowded over the years but they're not referring to the US or Europe.  93% of urbanization is in poor or developing countries...mostly in Africa and Asia.


My initial thoughts were that they must be facing a water shortage.  But that wasn't the case.  They're facing management problems.


Hmm.  It seems that we New Yorkers aren't the only ones being ripped off.


Because these city infrastructures have not kept up with the increasing rate of urbanization, their systems are declining and poor people are getting the shaft.  And because they can't afford to extend sewers to less fortunate areas, the volume of sewage is increasing and is causing a threat to their health and the environment.


And this is only going to get worse.


As global warming continues, and floods, droughts and "extreme events" (their words, not mine) occur, disrupting services, rising costs will drive more people to urban areas, increasing demands on these urban systems.

So far this is turning into a pretty grim piece.  But it does have an upside.

By bringing attention to issues like this one, cities have the opportunity to adopt more efficient water treatment technologies and capture water and waste to prevent it from causing environmental and downstream pollution.


Cities are resilient.  There are opportunities here - opportunities to recycle and reuse water and waste.


For me...I'll throw that glass of water that has been sitting on my nightstand into the plant. Wash that hair a little quicker.  Turn the water off while I brush my teeth.

Little things add up.

What will you do on this World Water Day?

Each day seems to bring us more unpleasant news from Japan. We can help. Text "REDCROSS" to 90999 and give a gift.  Any amount will help.