Earlier today, Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed March 22 as World Water Day with a special presentation acknowledging Toronto Water’s 150-year history and significance to the city. In 1874, the sale of the privately owned Toronto Water Company to the City was finalized by provincial legislation, creating the current municipal water system.
The Mayor’s World Water Day proclamation is available on the City’s Proclamations webpage.
The Toronto Sign will be lit blue on March 22 in honour of United Nations’ World Water Day to bring attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
The City is responsible for ensuring all residents and businesses in Toronto have access to safe drinking water, safely treated wastewater and stormwater management. The infrastructure that runs beneath and across the city is foundational to the health, environment and quality of life of Toronto and its residents.
Toronto Water recently completed its Drinking Water Quality Management System re-accreditation audit and received a perfect score for the fourth consecutive time – marking more than a decade of perfect scores – by meeting provincial standards and requirements for drinking water quality. Learn more about Toronto’s tap water and more by visiting the City’s Water & Environment webpage.
The City will be in the global spotlight when Toronto hosts the International Water Association’s World Water Congress & Exhibition from August 11 to 15, bringing together leading industry professionals from around the world. More information about the exhibition is available on the International Water Association’s webpage.
Quote:
“We are lucky to live in Canada, as we are a water-rich country with clean and abundant fresh water. We have some of the best drinking water in the world here in Toronto that comes straight from our taps. I am proud to acknowledge that for 150 years, Toronto Water has been building and expanding our city’s publicly owned water system and delivering critical drinking water, wastewater and stormwater management services.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.