Stars and STEM Stories
2024 Rivers in Spring, an Outstanding Celebration of World Water Day in Italy
Water: a natural resource that must be conserved and protected. It is a necessity for survival and a good life but it has limited availability caused by climate change. All of this came out loud and clear during the outstanding World Water Day celebration in Mantova, Italy. The event, called "Rivers in Spring," was organized by GLOBE Italy team in close collaboration with the Mantova City Council and scientists from the Deakin University in Australia. It brought together 3000 people.
While water was the unifying element of the event, the diversity of 85 activities across 46 work stations was really impressive. Educational booths, including those presenting The GLOBE Program, provided insights into the importance of river ecosystems, the impact of pollution, and strategies for sustainable water management.
Workshops led by experts in hydrology, ecology, and conservation offered participants the opportunity to delve deeper into topics such as river restoration techniques, watershed management, and the interconnectedness of water systems. These sessions not only empowered attendees with knowledge but also inspired them to take concrete actions to protect local rivers and waterways.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the involvement of youth organizations and schools in organizing interactive activities for children and teenagers. Guided by environmental educators and volunteers, young participants engaged in hands-on experiences, such as water quality testing, river clean-up, and art projects focused on depicting the beauty and importance of rivers.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was infused with a sense of friendship and shared aim as participants from diverse backgrounds came together to celebrate the beauty and importance of rivers. The event concluded with a symbolic river blessing ceremony, where attendees joined hands to express their commitment to protecting and preserving this precious natural resource for future generations.
The event was perceived by the local media, which followed and communicated it like never before, highlighting its richness and complexity.
The event was also promoted within the GLOBE Europe and Eurasia region in collaboration with the GLOBE Europe-Eurasia Region Coordination Office in Prague, Czech Republic.
A national live broadcast brought interviews with event participants and other activities from Mantova to the GLOBE community throughout Italy. Watch the recording of the national event here.
Moreover, the international live streaming brought together GLOBE Program scientists, coordinators, teachers and students from Asia, Europe, Africa, Latin America and the USA, involving institutions such as TERI (The Institute for Energy and Resources), University of California Berkeley, San Francisco State University, NASA and NOAA. Watch the recording of the international event here.
Images courtesy Lenka Kleger, GLOBE Europe and Eurasia Coordination Office.