As the cities of Flint and Houston have shown, water is a major global concern. While 85 percent of humanity lives in the driest half of the planet, our use and abuse of water is causing many rivers to disappear while we choke others with pollution. The seventh annual Richard L. James Lecture, Water: Peril and Promise, will be presented from 7 to 9 p.m., February 8, at the Schuylkill Center.

The Schuylkill Center has named 2018 as the Year of Water, inviting the region’s foremost water experts to share their insights. Scientist Bernard Sweeney, businessman Brian Linton, activist Maurice Sampson, architect José Almiñana, utility expert Debra McCarty and educator Aaliyah Green Ross will share their most important thoughts on water and engage the community in a town meeting conversation on this huge environmental concern. After the discussion, participants may enjoy a reception in the art gallery, presented by Yards Brewing Company.

Admission is free. Location: 8480 Hagy's Mill Rd., Philadelphia. For more information, call 215-482-7300 or visit SchuylkillCenter.org.