Travel anywhere in the world and people will agree that water is life. From the smallest droplets to the vast oceans, water keeps all life going; it cycles through plants, people and wildlife. Humans depend on abundant and clean freshwater for drinking, staying clean and healthy, foods and more. Good quality freshwater is at the basis of river-ecosystems, lakes, wetlands, peatlands that thrive with an array of plants and animals. Without water, life cannot exist. Water is also of great spiritual importance to many people.

While 71% surface of Earth is covered in water, freshwater accounts for only 3% of it. We may not all realise it, but clean freshwater water is a very precious resource that we share with other beings. Despite the essential role to life and livelihoods, much of our freshwater and the biodiversity it supports are in dire trouble. Only one-third of the world’s long rivers remain free-flowing and freshwater species are among the most threatened on the planet (with one in three facing extinction).  

The aim of this competition is for you to explore the powerful connection between water and life: in nature, in your daily life, in your local community. Using your creativity and imagination, share with us what water means to you. How does water sustain life where you live? Why is it essential to the world, everyone’s health and our shared future?

We have also created an infographic with information about this topic to help inspire students as they design their posters and storyboard their videos. Each year the Green-Schools Water team is impressed by the creativity and talent of the entries – and we cannot wait to see what you come up with this year!  

(*) Eligible schools: Primary and Secondary schools that have an active Green-Schools committee are eligible to enter our competition. In addition, the Video Competition is only open to secondary school students.