Water is a gift of nature and an elementary source of life. Pure and crystalline, odorless and tasteless; it is available and easier to reach in rivers, lakes, streams and also found in the atmosphere.
Seen from outer space, Earth looks like a blue planet. Almost 75% of its surface is water. Of this, 97% is formed by oceans; that is, salt water not adequate for human consumption. The remaining 3% is fresh water which is mostly stored in the polar glaciers and Amazon rivers.
Water is an essential resource for mankind; a vital necessity for our organisms and all kinds of living beings. Some creatures can live without oxygen, but, without water, none can survive. When there is no water, there is no life. A person could probably live up to a month without tasting food; without fresh water, he would not last a week. We can, therefore, say that we live by the grace of water.
Human necessity of water is crucial and reason enough to be aware that it needs proper management. Water is the same as health; when it's there, easily available, we ignore it. But, like health, it is desperately needed when we don't have it. Until not too long ago, water was taken for granted; nowadays, we all know that the water reserves are not eternal. Pure water for domestic use and fit for drinking, as well as a good drainage system, is a human right closely associated with health, sanitation and good standards of life.
Water is like blood to our planet, the rivers are the veins and the arteries of our Mother Earth. Without it, there would be neither forests nor crops, nor would we be able to enjoy its resplendent blue in oceans, rivers, lakes, snow-capped peaks and perpetual glaciers.
Water is also the habitat for an infinity of living organisms, including fish and remarkable creatures of extraordinary intelligence, like whales, dolphins, manatees and otters, aquatic mammals that display great affection and gentleness towards humans.
