Over two billion people in the world are unable to secure either access to safe water, or enough water to survive, over 4,000 Children die every day due to lack of clean water through dehydration or diseases. Water-related diseases that affect these children and their families include malaria, schistosomiasis, salmonella, dysentery, and giardia.
More than half of the beds in medical facilities around the world are occupied by people with diarrheal diseases. Additionally, all of these diseases are treatable through having sanitary water and water sources. Most of these diseases require something as basic as chlorinated filters or simple antibiotics to prevent ailments. Scarcities in access to clean water however is an issue that is still a struggle for many organizations around the world.
Efforts through activism have been approaching this issue through awareness and involvement. The World Health Organization (WHO) have declared the decade of 2005-2015 the International Decade for Action: Water for Life. Through these efforts, a report in 2011 states that 64% of the world’s population has had improved access to sanitary conditions. Unfortunately this still leaves over one third of the world without improved access. Other organizations have been making strides at resolving this discrepancy.
The Food & Water Watch work to educate those that actively seek information on the internet with global figures on the issues pertaining to our daily sustenance. Action Against Hunger educates and acts in emergencies to install storage and reservoirs, decontaminate water supplies, and repair/build pipe water to villages and care centers. The Water Project works to educate and implement solutions to the water crisis. For those that wish to get involved further with the water project, one can start a fundraising page through The Water Project’s website.
There has also been numerous water challenges that have occurred to spur conversation and action toward ending the water crisis. The Water Project has introduced a two week challenge, daring people to forgo any liquid but water and donating the resulting savings toward helping end the water crisis. Here in Denver, Colorado, Global Health Connections has challenged sixth graders in the Denver/Aurora Schools to come up with ways to end facets of the water crisis through innovative and creative ways. They have mentors help the youth think critically about the issue, and develop their ideas into tangible and sustainable solutions.
Efforts like this to rouse a new generation to become globally-minded and work to help end an issue that will continue to plague future generations unchecked. To get involved with these organizations, or see how your organization can foster support, follow any of the links above.
