10 July 2026
Water, Equality, and Innovation: Celebrating World Water Day with SSP World Water Day (Observed annually on March 22)
Water plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of natural ecosystems. Various water bodies, such as rivers, seas, and wetlands, serve as habitats for countless living organisms, sustaining both plants and animals. Furthermore, water is a fundamental necessity for human survival, used for drinking, daily consumption, and sanitation. It also plays a crucial role in agriculture, industry, and the economy. A shortage of water would directly impact food production, public health, and people's quality of life.
Therefore, World Water Day (March 22) was established to highlight the significance of water as a basic necessity for all living things on Earth. It aims to raise awareness about water conservation and sustainable water resource development. Each year, the United Nations designates a specific theme for the campaign. This year’s theme is "Water and Gender," which emphasizes the importance of fair and equitable access to clean water regardless of gender, serving as a foundation for sustainable development.
Current Water Situation in Thailand The water situation in Thailand in 2025 has been volatile. Some periods faced severe drought due to low rainfall, while others experienced heavy downpours leading to floods, reflecting an imbalance in water resources. According to water stress maps, many areas across the country are facing high water stress, including our project sites. This poses a significant risk of water shortage, as seen in the UPT project, which has encountered water scarcity. Consequently, it is essential to implement water-saving practices and proper water management.
Pilot Projects by SSP Colleagues
- Optimized Solar Panel Cleaning Schedule via Soiling Rate: A Kaizen Project from Ratchaburi. This project developed a method to calculate the most appropriate cleaning cycles. By ensuring that solar panels are cleaned only when necessary, it effectively reduces the frequency of cleanings and saves a significant amount of water.
- The "Lopburi Monkey Washer" Innovation: A custom-developed solar panel cleaning machine designed to improve cleaning efficiency. It reduces the water pressure required while maintaining excellent cleaning performance, resulting in effective water conservation during the panel-washing process.
Article by: Duangporn Ngamyoojaroen
References