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FAO: Access to safe water for all is key to sustainable development
25.03.2019 14:18 "Agro Perspectiva" (Kyiv) —
With climate change and population growth putting a boosting pressure on the global finite water resources, FAO is urging countries to step up efforts to enhance water efficiency and provide access to safe water for all. Ensuring global water security is fundamental to achieve Zero Hunger and the Sustainable Development Goals, FAO reports on the occasion of World Water Day (Mar 22).
In meanwhile, as of last week, the first International Forum on Water Scarcity in Agriculture (WASAG), co-organized by FAO, was held within Praia (Cabo Verde). While speaking within the Forum, FAO Deputy Director-General for Climate and Natural Resources Maria Helena Semedo said that the water is a universal wealth, crossing borders and nourishes all, and so access to the water is a human right.
«Just like water, we need to flow forward-to leave no one behind, like this years theme, which reflects the aspiration of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda,» she added.
As to the report, Semedo pointed to the need to find innovative sources of water, including recycling wastewater and rainwater harvesting, and boost the water efficiency, especially within the agricultural sectors.
«Within FAO, we promote measures like selection of drought and salinity resistant species, sustainable soil management and water harvesting. These innovations can go a long way to support farmers, especially smallholders, to guarantee food production in periods of water scarcity,» Semedo said.
She reminded that the agriculture accounts for 69% of global water usage, as about 80% of the world cropland is rain fed, producing 60% of total foods.
It is to be admitted, at the conclusion of the WASAG Forum, delegates from 47 countries adopted the Praia Commitments, which aim to promote sustainable water management as a driver of development, maximizing synergies across the 2030 Agenda, and support farmers with improved access to financing, innovative technologies and sound water management practices.
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