Water they say is life. It forms an integral composition of our universe and plays a critical role in the functioning of all things within.
According to an article by the Cooperative Extension Service at the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources at the University of Hawaii, water is ranked second only to oxygen as an essential for life.
Experts have stated that more than half of the human body weight is made of water and the average human cannot survive even a few days without it. Due to the critical role water plays in our existence, it is therefore no surprise that the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 focuses on the need for clean water.
The relevance of water cuts across all spheres of life including domestic, agriculture, anatomical relevance as well industrial purposes.
This article will highlights the relevance of water categorizing them under four main classes;
Domestic Relevance
It is an undisputable fact that water is a very essential commodity in our day to day activities. Imagine waking up in the morning only to realize there is no access to water. What this means is that all activities involving water during the day will not be possible including basic activities like brushing your teeth, bathing, cooking etc.
Agriculture Relevance
Agriculture is a major contributor to the society we live in, and the relevance of water to this sector cannot be overlooked. The use of water enables the growth of produce in agriculture and to raise livestock which all form a major aspect of our diets. Agricultural irrigation and other important processes within agriculture cannot be feasible without water.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Department, water used for irrigation accounts for nearly 65% of the world freshwater withdrawal excluding thermo electric power. This highlights the importance of water in the Agricultural sector.
Industrial Relevance
Water is very essential in the processes in the various industries. It is either used in creating products or cooling equipment. Water is used for fabricating, processing, washing, diluting or sometimes even transporting products.
Anatomical Relevance
The relevance of water cannot be complete without the importance it plays in our bodies and the life cycle of other living things. Water accounts for at least 70% of cell mass. This means that the survival of every cell depends on water and without it life is not possible. The ability of the body to easily regulate body temperature is also to an extent dependent on water.
Just like machines needs lubrication to function effectively, water plays the role of lubricants to lubricate joints, which allows for smooth movement and reduction of friction.
Water is abundant on earth and is essential in sustaining life, hence without water life will not be possible. Some scientist believe in the importance of water and are on expedition to find water on other planets. It is no surprise therefore that 70% of the earth mass is composed of water.
It is obvious from the foregoing that water is very relevant in all aspects of human endeavour. Efforts must therefore be made by government agencies to protect all water bodies and sources.
Abraham Abudulai Ayagri