World Water Day 2021: finding the true value of Scotland’s water

"The Hydro Nation International Centre at the James Hutton Institute in Scotland is honoured to coordinate our annual national celebration of World Water Day"

What is the true value of water in Scotland and what does it mean to you? On Monday 22^nd March, the Hydro Nation International Centre, supported by the Scottish Government and the James Hutton Institute are hosting a free online celebration of World Water Day, bringing together Scotland’s water community to hear their perspectives on the theme of ‘Valuing Water’.

In our water-rich Scotland, water is often taken for granted, but the annual UN World Water Day is a brilliant opportunity to reflect on what it means for a nation to truly value its water. Value means different things to different people, sometimes just purely economic, but many see water through a wider cultural, environmental, and societal lens.

On the 22^nd of March participants will be able to join in the conversation, in what is also Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters, and hear from representatives from the Water Industry Commission for Scotland, the Scotch Whisky Association, the Scottish Government, the Energy Saving Trust, Citizens Advice Scotland and VisitScotland.

This year’s online format has presented exciting opportunities and, in addition to a series of fascinating talks and panel discussions, World Water Day 2021 will host a series of immersive, three-dimensional virtual exhibition spaces, giving participants a chance to:

• Explore the latest thinking on range of issues, including community empowerment and engagement, how Scotland is leading water innovation, making our cities “climate-proof” and contributing to the global fight against climate change;
• Gain fascinating insight into the leading-edge research of the Hydro Nation Scholars and wider academic community;
• Network virtually with key players in the Scottish water sector, as well as others with interest and insight into Scotland’s water resources;
• Lose yourself in an exploration of the role of water in contemporary Scottish art and design,
• And more!

Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Scotland’s Centre of Expertise for Waters (CREW), said: “The Hydro Nation International Centre at the James Hutton Institute in Scotland, is honoured to coordinate our annual national celebration of World Water Day, bringing together water professionals, researchers, policy, regulators and the public to share experiences and perspectives on the world’s most precious resource.”

Barry Greig, of the Water Industry Team at Scottish Government, commented: “Scotland’s unique Hydro Nation agenda comprises a broad range of activities supporting the Scottish Government’s vision to be a world leader in the sustainable use and responsible management of water. We strive to manage our water environment to the best advantage, ensuring we recognise the importance and value of water within our national and international identity. World Water Day provides an ideal opportunity to showcase Scotland’s water leadership.”

The event will be held on the 22^nd March, with registration commencing at 9:30am. Tickets are free and can be booked via Eventbrite at the following link: http://bit.ly/ScotWWD21.