The miniature floats

MARIO RIOLO   (Cat. A)

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ORO BLU

Water scarcity is one of the most urgent challenges for humanity. Drought, pollution, and resource exploitation threaten the availability of this precious commodity, creating a complex and widespread global problem. Sicily is the only Italian region in the red zone, with a precipitation shortage lasting for months, a phenomenon not seen since 1980. We face long periods of sirocco with summer fires and winter drought, indicating an environmental upheaval.
To combat drought, the float represents a symbolic Native American invoking rain with his ancient dance, depicted next to an old well from which precious water flows. Water, defined as "blue gold," is essential for human life and represents a source of economic and social wealth.
According to UNICEF, about 2.2 billion people worldwide do not have direct access to water, with serious social and health consequences. Many countries lack basic water services, and about 4 billion people do not have adequate sanitation facilities. It is crucial to recognize the value of water and its vital role in the planet's sustenance, urging everyone to reconsider their relationship with this precious resource.
In regions with high water stress, water is the blue gold of the 21st century, while in other parts of the world, there are unjustified wastes. It is necessary to promote collective reflection to establish the principle of water as a universally recognized human right.