From the waters that run deep through the earth to the moisture that composes clouds in the sky, water hydrates all life forms on earth. Water also affects global weather that makes earth hospitable for living creatures and plants. This resource is all around us yet we rarely understand the need to conserve and protect our water.
This is why 4-H science programs are so important. Through this year’s National Science Experiment: 4-H₂O, students like me learn that water quality is constantly threatened with environmental changes caused by man-made pollutants like petroleum spills and naturally occurring hazards, such as an excess of minerals. We also discover how we as humans contribute to pollution through simple everyday habits such as excessive use of inefficient cars. Even wasting water itself puts a strain on the environment since it must be sanitized again and again by water-filtering stations using electricity made from nonrenewable substances such as petroleum. Small actions multiply to create serious damage in the environment and our water supply.
Fortunately, awareness of the problem is the first step to conserving the earth’s natural resources and this is why I am participating in 4-H National Youth Science Day. Simple habits such as using the car as little as possible, turning off the water while brushing your teeth, and taking quicker showers can make a strong impact.
You can see the effects of your carbon footprint and water pollution by participating in the 2010 4-H National Youth Science Day. Join 4-H in performing the official experiment to learn first-hand how water is polluted and what we can do about it. Learn other cool facts about conservation here. Baby steps can make a big difference.
