“Ripple Effect: Creating a Water Positive World”, by Curt Bergsten.
At just 15, I earned my scuba diving certificate, and only two months later I signed on to a Swedish merchant ship. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the sea — a bond shaped by salt air, open horizons, and the constant presence of water.
During the mid‑60s, I faced hurricanes, typhoons, and the raw power of the ocean from both above and below the surface. Those experiences taught me early on that the sea is not only beautiful, but commanding — a force that shapes climates, cultures, and lives.
From that time forward, I have always chosen to live close to the coast, no matter which country I called home. The rhythm of the waves, the scent of the tide, and the vastness of the horizon have remained my compass, reminding me of where my journey began and why water has always been central to my life.
Today’s thinking of Water positive was something I learned at a young age. Therefore, I would like to explain how I have developed this thinking by forming my project Watersupply.es
Being Water Positive: A Vision for the Future.
- Water is life. Yet, in a world facing increasing scarcity, the concept of being water positive is more than a choice—it’s a responsibility. Water positivity means giving back more water to the environment than we consume, ensuring sustainability for generations to come.
Start from Birth
- Water awareness should begin early. Teaching children the value of water from birth creates habits that last a lifetime. Schools and families must make water conservation part of everyday learning.
Knowledge is Power
- “To save water is knowledge.” Understanding the water cycle, scarcity issues, and conservation techniques empowers individuals to make informed decisions. Education is the foundation of water positivity.
Nature’s Role
- Oceans are the lungs of our planet, regulating climate and water cycles. Rainfall and humidity may seem constant globally, but local water availability is fragile. Protecting these systems is essential.
Recycling is Non-Negotiable
- Water recycling—through rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and wastewater treatment—is a must. Every drop counts, and every system that reuses water brings us closer to a water-positive future.
Creating a Water Positive Generation
- We need a cultural shift. A new generation must embrace water positivity as a core value, integrating it into lifestyle, technology, and policy.
Groundwater Protection
- Groundwater is a hidden treasure. Sustainable extraction and recharge zones ensure this resource remains available for future generations.
Learning from History
- The Romans understood water management. Their aqueducts and distribution systems reflect early water-positive thinking. We can learn from their ingenuity while applying modern tech.
The Call to Action
- Water positivity is not just an environmental goal—it’s a social movement. By starting early, educating widely, and innovating boldly, we can create a world where water is abundant, clean, and accessible for all.
Being Water Positive: A Vision for the Future
Water is life. Every drop sustains ecosystems, economies, and communities. Yet, as global water challenges intensify, the concept of being water positive is no longer optional—it’s essential. Water positivity means giving back more water to the environment than we consume, through conservation, recycling, and sustainable practices. It’s a mindset, a movement, and a mission for humanity.
Why Water Positivity Matters
Freshwater is finite. Although Earth is covered in water, only 2.5% is freshwater, and most of that is locked in glaciers or deep underground. The water we rely on for drinking, agriculture, and industry is limited—and under pressure from climate change, pollution, and population growth.
By 2030, global demand for water is expected to exceed supply by 40% if current trends continue. Becoming water positive is about reversing this trajectory—restoring balance between consumption and replenishment.
Start from Birth
Water awareness should begin early. Teaching children the value of water from birth creates habits that last a lifetime. Imagine schools where water-saving practices are part of the curriculum, and homes where every family member understands the importance of conservation. This cultural shift starts with education.
Knowledge is Power
“To save water is knowledge.” Understanding the water cycle, scarcity issues, and conservation techniques empowers individuals to make informed decisions. Knowledge transforms behavior—whether it’s fixing leaks, choosing water-efficient appliances, or supporting policies that protect water resources.
The Call to Action
Water positivity is not just an environmental goal—it’s a social movement. By starting early, educating widely, and innovating boldly, we can create a world where water is abundant, clean, and accessible for all. The time to act is now—because every drop counts.
Action Steps for a Water Positive Future
- Educate: Integrate water literacy into school curricula and public campaigns.
- Innovate: Support technologies for water recycling, desalination, and efficient irrigation.
- Conserve: Adopt water-saving habits—fix leaks, use low-flow fixtures, and reduce waste.
- Collaborate: Governments, businesses, and communities must work together on water stewardship.
- Advocate: Push for policies that protect watersheds, regulate pollution, and ensure equitable access
Summary;
Being or creating Water positive behaviour should be a natural trait in all of us. Back to basic thinking means a better historical knowledge of how water consumption has been managed and preventive work for future natural disasters in agriculture over the last 1000 years. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel, just improve its use.
Unfortunately, humanity has forgotten the preventive measures needed to synchronize water consumption and wastewater with the expansion of housing and industry. This should be addressed immediately with the help of old and new technologies, so that we can achieve a Water Positive world.
Thank you for reading my post.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year 2026,
#Curtbergsten / #Windmush
