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International Day of Action for Rivers is an annual event observed every March 14. On this day, people around the world acknowledge the essential role of rivers in our lives. Moreover, the day also aims to raise awareness about issues related to climate change, industrial and agricultural waste, sewage dumping in water bodies, and its negative impacts on our environment. Moreover, on 11 March 2025, the world will observe the 27th Anniversary of the International Day of Action for Rivers. Let’s learn about its history, theme, significance, and other details.
| Name of the day | International Day of Action for Rivers |
| Observed on | 14 March |
| Reason | To acknowledge the important role of rivers in our lives and to address increasingly popular issues such as climate change. |
| Theme 20254 | Our Rivers, Our Future. |
Also Read: Earth Day Quiz 2024: 25 Questions and Answers
History of International Day of Action for Rivers
Table of Contents
- 1 History of International Day of Action for Rivers
- 2 Theme of International Day of Action for Rivers
- 3 Why do we Need to Save Rivers?
- 4 Significance of the International Day of Action for Rivers
- 5 3 Ways to Observe the International Day of Action for Rivers
- 6 5 Important Facts About Rivers
- 7 International Day of Action for Rivers: A Timeline
- 8 International Day of Action for Rivers: Dates
- 9 5 Quotes on International Day of Action for Rivers
- 10 FAQs
- It was formerly known as International Day Against Dams, for Rivers, Water, and Life.
- In September 1995, numerous prominent organizations around the world such as Chile’s Biobio Action Group (GABB), International Rivers Network (I.R.N.), India’s Save the Narmada Movement (N.B.A.), etc came together to organize a meeting in Brazil.
- This meeting eventually led to the formation of an international Organizing Committee, headed by Brazil’s Movement of People Affected by Large Dams (MAB).
- Moving ahead in March 1997, participants of the First International Meeting of People Affected by Dams adopted the International Day of Action Against Dams and For Rivers, Water and Life. This event happened in Curitiba, Brazil.
- Participants from twenty member countries later decided the date of this day to be March 14.
Theme of International Day of Action for Rivers
Every year an official theme is decided to emphasize specific issues. This year’s theme revolves around the concept of “Our Rivers, Our Future”. Below is a table that contains details about themes of previous years as well:
| Year | Theme |
| 2024 | Water for all |
| 2023 | Rights of Rivers |
| 2022 | The Importance of Rivers for Biodiversity |
Also Read: World Wildlife Day 2024: Theme, History, Significance, and Importance of Wildlife Management
Why do we Need to Save Rivers?
Did you know that over two million tons of sewage along with industrial waste is dumped into the water bodies of our world every day? According to UNESCO, 90% of the sewage produced by developing countries is released directly into water bodies without being treated properly. This alarming information further highlights the urgent need to preserve rivers for reasons such as:
- Rivers are an important part of our ecosystems as they support a diverse range of organisms.
- Saving rivers ensures the protection of the biodiversity of our planet.
- Rivers are also a vital source of freshwater that is used for everything from human consumption to agriculture and industrial activities.
- Rivers of our world also contribute to the water cycle and influence rainfall patterns and weather events.
- Additionally, rivers also offer support to a wide range of economic activities such as tourism, fishing, and agriculture.
Significance of the International Day of Action for Rivers
International Day of Action for Rivers holds great significance for reasons such as:
- It raises awareness about the importance of river bodies in maintaining our ecosystem and sustaining human life.
- The day highlights the immense threat and challenges being faced by water bodies such as contamination, water pollution, and damn construction.
- It urges people around the world to mindfully use water resources and preserve them for future generations.
- International Day of Action for Rivers also inspires generations to work collectively towards safeguarding rivers.
- Interestingly, it also advocates for equitable management of water resources.
Also Read: World Environment Day: Theme, History, Importance
3 Ways to Observe the International Day of Action for Rivers
The following are the ways to observe the international day of action for rivers.
- You can join the movement. For this, you can plan an event in your area and try to save and conserve rivers and share the details to the official email ([email protected].)
- Tell others about the importance of rivers- You can also share information with others about the importance of rivers. You can educate your friends and family about the same.
- Share your river story- You can share your personal stories that are related to rivers. For example, if you had a family picnic near the river, an activity to save rivers.
5 Important Facts About Rivers
The following are the five important facts about rivers. You can learn these facts for the International Day of Action for Rivers.
- Water pollution– Rivers are being polluted every day. 80% of the Sewage water from the rivers is sent into large lakes or rivers.
- The end of the river has a name– The end of the river is called a mouth. It takes the form of the river is taken and sent into large lakes or sea.
- Shortest river– The shortest river is extremely short. It is called the Roe River. This river is only 201 feet in depth. It is situated in Montana in the USA.
- Rainbow river– The River Cano is called the Rainbow River. It is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the world due to its striking colors.
- The holy river– In India, the River Gaga is considered a holy river. In fact, this river is worshipped as a Goddess.
International Day of Action for Rivers: A Timeline
The Timeline for the International Day of Action for the Rivers are as follows:
| Year | Event Description |
| 1997 | The First International Day of Action For Rivers – Adopted by representatives from 20 countries in Curitiba, Brazil. |
| 2010 | People Get More Awareness – People worldwide become more aware of the importance of rivers. |
| 2021 | The First Virtual Celebration – Due to the pandemic, many organizations conduct events online to celebrate the day. |
International Day of Action for Rivers: Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2029 | March 14 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | March 14 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | March 14 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 14 | Saturday |
| 2025 | March 14 | Friday |
5 Quotes on International Day of Action for Rivers
Rivers are the lifeblood of our planet, connecting us all in a flow of nature.
Rivers teach us the art of resilience, flowing through challenges to nourish the world.
The fate of rivers is the fate of civilizations; let’s choose wisely and protect our waterways.
Every river has a story, and on this day, let’s ensure it’s a tale of conservation and respect.
Rivers are the arteries of Earth; their health reflects our collective well-being.
Related Blogs
| World Earth Day | Environment Quiz |
| G20 Thinq Quiz | General Knowledge for Kids |
| Famous Environmental Movements in India | Environmental Conservation |
FAQs
The first International Day of Action for Rivers was observed in March 1997.
The global celebration of the International Day of Action for Rivers aims to highlight the rising environmental, social, and economic benefits of our rivers. It includes biodiversity, recreational activities, and freshwater supply for thousands of people around the world.
The theme of International Day of Action for Rivers 2024 is Water for All.
The international day of action for rivers is celebrated every year on 14th March. On this day, communities, environmentalists, and politicians come together to commemorate the significance of rivers in maintaining biodiversity, ecosystems and human livelihoods.
The theme for the international day of action for rivers is “Our Rivers, Our Future. This theme focuses on the importance of rivers in maintaining life on Earth.
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