March 22 is World Water Day, a United Nations event that celebrates water.

Around the world today, people are coming together to celebrate an integral part of life on this earth — water.

March 22 is officially World Water Day, a designation that was made by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992. The first celebration was held on March 22, 1993.

This year’s official celebrations are being held in Cape Town, South Africa, where there will be a focus on water and urbanization.

In particular, the conference will look at the effect of rapid population growth, industrialization, and the uncertainties of climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on a city’s water system, according to the UN website.

In years past, themes have been on water quality, sanitation, water scarcity and transboundary waters.

Throughout the United States, additional World Water Day festivities are being held. While there aren’t any in Kansas, you can celebrate by following these water conservation tips provided by the website Water Use It Wisely.

• When washing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.

• Adjust sprinklers so just the lawn is watered — not the house, sidewalk or street.

• Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Composting food waste saves gallons of water.

• Run the washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full.

• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean off the driveway and sidewalk.

There are plenty more tips on ways to save water at http://www.wateruseitwisely.com