Water. It’s easy to take it for granted — it comes out of the faucet whenever we need it, and we can buy it bottled almost anywhere at any time. Yet, all over the globe there are people who don’t have access to clean, safe drinking water.  

World Water Day is celebrated on March 22nd  every year. This year’s theme is about the importance of groundwater — an invisible resource with an impact visible everywhere. 

Life would not be possible without groundwater. Most arid areas of the world depend entirely on groundwater for drinking, sanitation, food production, industrial processes, and to naturally support wildlife.  It is also critically important to the healthy functioning of ecosystems.  

Overuse of groundwater and pollution negatively affect groundwater. Besides causing illness in humans, animals and plants also suffer when the quality of groundwater decreases. We all need to do our part to protect this vital supply of water for all species on Earth.   

Here are 7 simple ways we can protect and conserve groundwater in our homes. 

Reduce Chemical Use

Use fewer chemicals around your home and yard, and make sure to dispose of them properly – don’t dump them on the ground! Click here for more information on how to dispose of household hazardous waste in Toronto. 

Don’t Let It Run

Shut off the water when you brush your teeth or when you are shaving.  

Fix the Drip

Check all the faucets, fixtures, toilets, and taps in your home for leaks and fix them right away. 

Wash Smarter

Instead of doing the laundry or using the washing machine whenever you have a few items, try running only full loads to preserve water.  

Water Wisely

Water the lawn and plants during the coolest parts of the day and only when they truly need it.  

Natural Cleaning Alternatives

Use all natural or nontoxic household cleaners whenever possible. Materials such as lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar make great cleaning products, are inexpensive, and are environmentally friendly. 

Learn and Do More!

Get involved in water education! Learn more about World Water Day and share your knowledge with others. 

Why We Care

Toronto Humane Society is committed to sustainability. With the current environmental crisis and global pandemic combined, there couldn’t be a better time to focus on sustainability. It is imperative that our society works towards stabilizing the commonly disruptive relationship that exists between human culture and the living world. We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint and inspiring others to do the same as we build a better society for both humans and animals.