Since 1993, World Water Day has marked a time of observance and action to focus attention on the struggle of one billion people who do not have access to safe, clean drinking water. This year, World Water Day will be held on March 22 with communities across the world participating in events. The day was initiated by the United Nations and has started to receive more attention with each passing year, though organizers hope it will soon be as widely recognized as Earth Day.

Approximately 4,500 children die each day due to the absence of safe, clean water; in 2004, was estimated that the problem was responsible for the deaths of 2.2 million children under the age of five years old. The U.N. is working on solutions to the global problem, which includes prioritizing access to water in its Millennium Development Goals.

New York, Los Angeles and Seattle will all participate in the annual Walk For Water event, symbolizing the women in poor, water-deficient countries who walk six miles each day to retrieve water for their families. Those who do not live in a community with planned events for the day can participate in the Virtual Walk For Water. By signing up for the virtual event, your name will be placed in a symbolic water jug and carried by a participant in the Walk for Water.

Hit the jump to learn more about World Water Day and click here to see a list of events being hosted online and in various global communities.

» World Water Day (Official Site)