International Day of Action for Rivers 2022: What you should know
The International Day of Action For Rivers' aim is to raise voices in unison against destructive water development projects, reclaim the health of watersheds, and demand the equitable and sustainable management of rivers.
The International Day of Action for Rivers is celebrated every year on March 14 to raise awareness about the value and importance of rivers. It also brings people from across the world to discuss and spread awareness about conserving rivers, river management, pollution, and equitable access to clean and flowing water. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day of Action for Rivers, with a theme 'to highlight the importance of Rivers to Biodiversity.'
The History
The International Day of Action For Rivers was adopted by the participants of the First International Meeting of People Affected by Dams, March 1997 in Curitiba Brazil. The main aim is to raise voices in unison against destructive water development projects, reclaim the health of watersheds, and demand the equitable and sustainable management of rivers.
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Significance & why is it celebrated
According to the International Rivers organization, 'the International Day of Action for Rivers is a day dedicated to solidarity – when diverse communities around the world come together with one voice to say that rivers matter.' The day raises and spreads awareness about how rivers sustain our lives. It focuses on restoring and maintaining rivers, as well as on freshwater ecosystems (rivers) as a source of clean water for irrigation and drinking.
On March 14, several activities including river cleanups, online webinars, river walks, and paddleboard celebrations are held across the world. Volunteers from across the globe come together to raise awareness on protecting the river bodies. In 2021, the International Rivers organization held over 120 events in 32 countries - from Bangladesh to Guam to Germany to Nigeria.
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