Los Ríos, cradle of life and culture for the world

Since 2005, Rivers Day has been celebrated worldwide on the fourth Sunday of September. Although the date may differ in some countries, the objective is the same in all of them: promoting their conservation and respect, reflecting on human behaviour and the consequences of misguided action, which can destroy ecosystems and make species extinct. It is urgent that we all become aware of this issue and the need for change.

Los Rios in history

Since their beginnings, rivers have been synonymous with life for humans, enabling the development of civilisation through transport, agriculture and the maintenance of biological life. It is no coincidence that the cradle of great civilisations was in the region now known as Mesopotamia, which means "land between rivers", as it is situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. 

This was the first place where humans found the right conditions to develop culturally, politically and commercially. A significant change in human lifestyle took place on the banks of these rivers, which would have a lasting effect on the entire planet: nomadic tribes became sedentary. 

Being in an optimal environment, the tribes developed irrigated agriculture, which, together with the domestication of animals, provided them with food surpluses and allowed them to begin the formation of cities.

In the process of the formation of human civilisation, in addition to the two rivers already mentioned, another river deserves to be highlighted for its historical-geographical dimensions. This river is the largest territorial extension in the world. Its course is 7088 km long in a south-north direction, and it crosses the African continent, passing through ten countries. It originates in two large lakes: Lake Vitoria, in Uganda, and Lake Tana, in Ethiopia. We are talking about the world-famous Nile River. Thanks to the prosperity of its waters, a powerful and advanced civilisation was able to build itself along its course: the great Egyptian empire. 

What has happened since then? Unfortunately, the human species is not always grateful. We have failed to appreciate this gift, and how much we need them. That is why today we can see how rivers are being polluted; negatively impacting not only humans, but also fish and river ecosystems.

Los Rios, today

Representing 0.3% of the planet's water, rivers constitute a rather small portion of the freshwater effectively available for use and consumption. In other words, it is a resource that, although renewable, is finite.

The perpetual movement of the waters of rivers is the largest source of drinking water supply for humans. They are also responsible for producing 16% of the world's electrical energy, as well as playing a fundamental role in sustaining the planet's fauna and flora, serving as a source of refuge and food for thousands of species. 

The main pollutants in rivers include:

• Untreated wastewater (organic waste)
• Agricultural (chemical) residues
• Industrial (chemical) waste
• Solid waste (plastic, glass, etc.)

What can we do?

The main thing is to be aware of the harm or good that our actions can cause, and to act accordingly. From Asoprovida we propose:

• When we go to the rivers, let's respect the ecosystem and not leave our rubbish there.
• Let's join in the clean-up activities in our locality.
• Avoid leaving the water running when not in use: washing dishes, bathing, etc. 
• We will repair any leaks in the house and turn off the water taps properly.
• Let's reduce the volume of waste in our homes.

There is no better time than the present to make a change and preserve this wonderful and necessary resource. For a healthier present, for a sustainable future, Happy World Rivers Day!