On October 16 every year, World Food Day is celebrated to spread global awareness of hunger and encourage action to ensure the future of food, people and the environment. In 2023, the main focus will be on promoting water-related measures to support food systems. 

The World Food Day 2023 campaign is coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and emphasizes improving water efficiency in food, feed and biofuel production. At the same time, it also proposes to ensure equitable water use, protect fisheries resources and prevent anyone from being left behind. 

Water resources account for 72% of total freshwater use globally and are facing increasing pressure due to population growth, urbanization, economic development and climate change. Inefficient water use, poor management, overexploitation of groundwater, pollution and climate change are causing rapid deterioration of water resources and water quality. 

Today, 2.4 billion people live in water-strapped countries, and many people, especially women, indigenous peoples, migrants and refugees, are facing hardship. towels to meet their daily needs. Competition for precious resources is increasing and leading to conflict. 

About 600 million people around the world depend at least in part on aquatic food systems for their livelihoods, and they are suffering from the impacts of pollution, ecosystem degradation, unsustainable practices and climate change. 

To secure the future of food, people and the planet, sustainable, efficient and equitable management of water resources becomes critically important. People can start by taking personal actions like favoring local, seasonal foods and reducing food waste.

Source: United Nations I UN Water