Healthy Water Ecosystems

Water is a precious resource; consequently, access to safe water and sanitation is critical for health and security. Protecting aquatic ecosystems and providing clean water is essential for limiting the spread of contaminants, pathogens and antimicrobial resistant genes among humans and from humans to the environment. Changing hydrological conditions associated with climate change, intensification of agriculture and expanding industrial activities and water requirements threaten availability, sustainability and overall quality of clean water and the plants and animals that depend on it. Aquatic ecosystems are impacted by development and land use changes, exploitation of underground aquifers and contamination by waste and discharges from humans, agriculture, and industry. It is expected that water scarcity and flooding will lead to increased transboundary conflicts associated with water availability and contaminant transfer.

People and all other biota cannot live without water. Healthy aquatic ecosystems are essential to replenishing the supply of water and maintaining aquatic biodiversity. Resilient aquatic environments are essential for ensuring greater natural sustainability for the benefit of people and all life forms. Protection of water ecosystems is a complex global health and sustainability issue.

A One Health approach is very relevant to the imperative of protecting the quality of water and the health of animals and people dependent on it.