Water is a precious resource, yet too many of us take it for granted. In many parts of the world, access to clean drinking water is a luxury. Around 844 million people—that’s one in nine of the world’s population—currently lack access to clean drinking water. This article will explore the current situation and offer some solutions to this global crisis.
A Glass Half Full: An Exploration of Clean Water Access
The human right to clean drinking water is currently not a reality throughout much of the world. According to the World Health Organization, nearly two billion people around the world use a drinking water source contaminated with feces. This has dire consequences on health, with the UN reports estimating that diseases related to unsafe water and inadequate sanitation cause around 842,000 deaths annually.
Poverty is a major factor in this problem, as those with limited financial means often lack access to safe drinking water. For example, in South Sudan, areas with the highest poverty levels are also those with the least access to clean drinking water. Lack of infrastructure is also a contributing factor, as those in rural areas are more likely to lack proper access.
Brightening the Future: Uniting for Clean Drinking Water
The solution to this issue is complex and requires the cooperation of governments, citizens, and businesses alike. Governments should address the issue of infrastructure and provide the necessary resources to ensure access to clean drinking water.
We can also empower those living in poverty by providing technological solutions to assist in the monitoring of water quality, as well as educating citizens on proper sanitation practices.
As individuals, we can contribute to the cause by supporting charities and initiatives that provide clean drinking water to those in need. We can also make informed decisions about our own water usage to ensure that no water goes to waste.
Access to clean drinking water is a human right, and it is up to us to ensure that no one is denied it. Through collaboration and informed choices, we will be able to make this precious resource accessible to everyone in need.