Hillsborough County Recognizes World Water Day 2025: Preserving Our Most Vital Resource

Every year on March 22, World Water Day highlights the importance of freshwater and advocates for the sustainable management of water resources. Established by the United Nations in 1993, this annual observance raises awareness of the 2.2 billion people who lack access to safe water and encourages global efforts to tackle the water crisis. A key objective of World Water Day is ensuring clean water for all by 2030.

This year's World Water Day theme is "Glacier Preservation," emphasizing the urgent need to protect the world's glaciers, which serve as critical freshwater reserves for millions of people.
Hillsborough County is committed to managing its water resources sustainably.

The County's water supply is derived from a combination of sources:

• Surface water bodies (35%)
• The Floridan aquifer (60%)
• Desalination (5%)
  

With Florida's demand for freshwater projected to rise by approximately 28 percent by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, it is crucial to develop strategies that ensure a reliable water supply while protecting natural resources. Freshwater makes up only about 3 percent of the Earth's total water supply, with less than 1 percent readily available for human use. The lack of clean water is a growing challenge worldwide, with over 2 billion people living in areas experiencing water stress.

Even in developed areas, population growth and industrial activities place significant strain on water resources, particularly groundwater. Sustainable water management is vital for ensuring that future generations have access to clean and reliable water supplies.

How You Can Make a Difference

Hillsborough County encourages residents to be mindful of their water use and take action to conserve this essential resource.

Here are a few simple ways to help:

• Fix leaks: A single dripping faucet can waste gallons of water each day. Leak adjustments to water bills are available for qualifying Hillsborough County water customers.
• Use water-efficient appliances: Look for WaterSense-labeled products.
• Limit outdoor watering: Follow the County's irrigation schedule to reduce unnecessary water use.
• Be aware of pollution: Avoid using harmful chemicals in landscaping and dispose of waste properly to prevent contamination of water sources.
  

Hillsborough County is working diligently to ensure that water resources remain clean and abundant for generations to come. But the County needs everyone's help. On World Water Day, let's recognize the value of water and commit to preserving it for the future.
For more information on Hillsborough County's water conservation initiatives, visit Water Conservation | Hillsborough County, FL.

Things to Know

1. County water supply sources: The County's water supply relies on a vast network of surface water bodies (around 35%), the Floridan aquifer (around 60%), and desalination (5%).
2. Projected Increase in Water Demand: By 2030, Florida's demand for fresh water is estimated to increase by about 28% compared to 2005 levels, challenging traditional groundwater sources. ​Cited source: Saving Water in Florida
3. Global Freshwater Availability: Only about 3% of the Earth's water is freshwater, and 1% or less is readily accessible for direct human use.
4. Global Water Scarcity: Globally, more than 2 billion people live in areas facing water stress regardless of the country's wealth. Communities struggle daily to access clean water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. This crisis disproportionately affects women and children, who often bear the burden of collecting water in many places I have worked and witnessed.
5. Perspective is key: Dense populations and industrial hubs use large quantities of energy and water. Although developed parts of the world may appear to have an abundance of water resources, the concentration of industry and people frequently puts pressure on resources, particularly groundwater supplies.