Celebrating World Water Day in Canada

(NC) Every March, people across the globe observe World Water Day. First created by the United Nations in 1993, this day highlights the importance of fresh water and inspires us to take action to tackle the global water crisis.

Reflecting on water at home
Here in Canada, World Water Day is a great reminder that there is still work to be done to achieve clean drinking water for everyone—including First Nations communities. This work can mean everything from repairing outdated infrastructure to building new systems and training local water operators.

Working together to address water issues in First Nations communities and to support control of water services by First Nations and First Nations-led organizations are key steps towards reconciliation.

Work underway
Significant progress is being made to improve on-reserve water and wastewater infrastructure. In fact, since 2015, 83 per cent of long-term drinking water advisories have been lifted, positively impacting over 8,000 homes in First Nations communities.

Another initiative underway is the ongoing training of local water operators who are responsible for adjusting treatment processes, monitoring operations and ensuring water quality meets or exceeds guidelines. These local water operators are essential to ensuring long-term, sustainable and safe access to drinking water in First Nations communities.

Achieving clean drinking water for all
Despite these successes, not all communities currently have safe drinking water. As of January 20, 2025, there were 31 active long-term drinking water advisories, but First Nations communities and the Government of Canada are working together to address them. Work is underway in the 29 affected communities and will help make sure they can have safe drinking water for generations to come.

Learn more about the plan to achieve clean water for all at canada.ca/water-on-reserve.