MIDS Participates in "Water for Future" Webinar on World Water Day 2025
21/Mar/2025
Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) actively participated in the Asia Regional Webinar – "Water for Future", organized by CIDAL of Caritas India in association with Caritas Asia to commemorate World Water Day 2025. The theme for this year was "Save Glaciers," emphasizing the urgent need to protect water ecosystems for future generations. Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome, Director, MIDS, and Mr. Shabin S, Coordinator, MIDS, represented MIDS in this significant discussion, alongside other experts and policymakers, to address the pressing concerns related to water conservation, climate change, and sustainable water management.
The webinar stressed that water is not just a resource but the essence of life itself. It is critical to ensure responsible management to secure drinking water and other water needs for the future. One of the major concerns discussed was the alarming rate of glacier melting, which has led to rising sea levels and increased climate stress. Experts highlighted the need for reducing carbon footprints and establishing community-based response systems to mitigate the impact of climate change on glaciers. Every individual and organization, including NGOs, should take proactive steps, even on a small scale, to contribute toward water conservation.
The speakers also emphasized that water is increasingly in demand across countries, making it as valuable as "liquid gold." However, instead of treating it as a commodity, it should be recognized as a fundamental right. A notable example shared during the webinar was how New Zealand has legally recognized a river as a living entity and implemented policies to protect it. The discussion highlighted that the water crisis is not merely a technical issue but also a political challenge, with privatization and commercial interests threatening global water security. Governments, organizations, and communities must work together to preserve and conserve water resources responsibly, preventing water wars.
The webinar provided critical insights into the global water crisis, with experts reminding that only 3% of the world's water is freshwater, and most of it comes from glaciers. Water pollution caused by plastic waste, harmful agricultural practices, and industrial contamination is worsening the situation. The conversation underscored that we must act collectively today to determine the water security of the future.
Another key focus was on groundwater conservation and sustainable water management. Experts discussed the importance of understanding local geology and reviving traditional water conservation methods. Over-extraction of groundwater has led to depletion, necessitating sustainable approaches such as tree planting, water-based landscaping, rainwater harvesting, and groundwater recharge systems. Recycling and reusing water, especially in urban areas, were also suggested as crucial strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Dr. Haridas V.R. shared successful case studies from different parts of India, showcasing models for rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and community-driven conservation projects. He demonstrated how some regions have effectively utilized rainwater collection systems to meet their drinking water and irrigation needs. The webinar also highlighted that India receives enough rainfall annually to meet water demands, but the real challenge lies in preserving water quality. Rising concerns over microplastic contamination and the excessive use of chemicals in agriculture were discussed, with experts urging stricter policies to regulate harmful practices affecting water safety.
The event concluded with a call to action, emphasizing that water conservation is a shared responsibility. Some key takeaways included the adoption of rainwater harvesting, the revival of traditional conservation methods, reducing carbon footprints to slow glacier melting, and advocating for stronger policies to protect water resources. The webinar reinforced that water security is not just a government concern but a collective duty that requires immediate and sustained action.
MIDS remains committed to implementing water conservation initiatives, promoting awareness, and actively working toward sustainable water management. This webinar served as an invaluable platform to exchange ideas, learn from successful conservation models, and inspire communities to take urgent action to safeguard water for the future.
Read More
251526926WORLD WATER DAY (1).jpg)
