From American Geosciences Institute (AGI), sponsoring organization of Earth Science Week:

Earth Science Week 2021 — Water Today and for the Future — will emphasize the importance of learning how to understand, conserve, and protect water, perhaps Earth’s most vital resource.

Water is essential for life on Earth. While more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface is covered by water, most of it is saltwater in oceans. Only about 3 percent of the water on our planet is freshwater, and most of that is in glaciers, the atmosphere, or otherwise inaccessible, leaving less than 1percent of the total available for use by people and other living things. — Edward C. Robeck, AGI Education and Outreach Director.

Earth Science Week 2021 learning resources and activities will engage young people and others in exploring the importance of water — and water science — for living things, Earth systems, and the many activities that people undertake. Individuals of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities will be engaged in building understanding of water’s role in timely topics including energy, climate change, the environment, natural hazards, technology, industry, agriculture, recreation, and the economy.

Raising awareness of the geosciences nationally and around the globe, AGI leads Earth Science Week in cooperation with its sponsors and the geoscience community as a service to the public. Each October, community groups, educators, and interested citizens organize celebratory events. Earth Science Week offers opportunities to discover the Earth sciences and engage in responsible stewardship of the Earth. Learn more online.