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๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Indonesia /Environment & Climate

Water, the Source of Life That Must Be Protected

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Analysis Sources not specified Context piece
  • Water is the most precious resource for life, yet only a small fraction of Earth's water is clean and accessible for human consumption.
  • Growing populations, pollution, and climate change are increasingly limiting access to clean water, threatening a future crisis.
  • Protecting water resources is a shared responsibility requiring active participation from all members of society.

Water stands as the most vital resource for all life on Earth, yet its accessibility for human needs is alarmingly limited. While oceans cover 71 percent of the planet, about 97 percent is saltwater, rendering it undrinkable. Of the remaining freshwater, much is locked away as ice or deep underground, leaving a scarce supply for consumption.

This reality serves as a stark reminder that clean water is not an inexhaustible resource but a natural treasure that demands careful stewardship. Scientifically, water (Hโ‚‚O) is essential for human life, making up 60-70 percent of the body. It regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, aids in waste elimination, and lubricates joints.

Beyond quenching thirst, adequate hydration is crucial for health. However, the primary concern has shifted from mere daily intake to the dwindling availability of clean water. Factors such as population growth, river pollution, natural resource exploitation, and climate change are exacerbating scarcity. Ignoring these issues could lead to a widespread water crisis for future generations.

Therefore, preserving water resources is a collective duty. It requires the active involvement of every segment of society, not just governments or specific groups. Given the limited supply of clean water, each individual plays a role in ensuring its sustainability through conscious daily habits.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.