Today is #WorldWaterDay, a United Nations initiative to raise awareness about this amazing 'free' resource and encouraging people and nations to value it for what it is.

In #jerseyci we fortunate to have a plentiful supply, but weather patterns are changing and that is bringing its own challenges with deluges at the start of the year followed by periods of drought, so even here we need to consider more how we harvest and store water going forward.

In other parts of the world water is scarce, and competition over water resources can lead to conflicts, both locally and internationally.

As populations grow and demand for water increases, there's often competition between different users such as agriculture, industry and households. Additionally, the uneven distribution of water resources across regions and countries can exacerbate tensions.

Issues like access to water for drinking, irrigation and sanitation, as well as the construction of dams and water diversion projects can all be sources of contention.

Efforts to manage water resources sustainably, promote cooperation through treaties and agreements, and implement equitable water sharing mechanisms are crucial in preventing conflicts and ensuring access to water for all stakeholders. International organisations and diplomatic efforts play a significant role in facilitating cooperation and resolving disputes over water resources.

So, today is a day to highlight the significance of water in our daily lives, ecosystems and economies, as well as to address water-related challenges such as scarcity, pollution and climate change impacts.