Water is a scarce resource and getting potable water is a challenge, especially in developing countries. In some countries, as much as 80% of illnesses are linked to poor water and sanitation conditions. 1 in 9 people worldwide or about 785 million don’t have access to clean drinking water, which is about twice the population of the U.S. Every year, 3.5 million people die as a result of diseases such as Cholera, Dysentry, Trachoma, and Typhoid, caused by ingestion of filthy water. By 2050, more than half the people in the world (5 billion) could be living in water-stressed areas. The poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” warns us “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.”
Access to clean water can change the lives of people, and give them an opportunity to do essential things like go to school, earn a living, bathe, and even feel good about themselves. World leaders and people worldwide must work together to solve this global crisis until no one is left without clean drinking water, a fundamental resource for life.
We can all do our part in conserving and reusing water, and also by expressing our opinion against pollution of water sources. Governments need to invest in appropriate infrastructure. We do not want to fall victim to a lack of clean water, something that has the power to affect the whole world. In the words of Leonardo da Vinci, “Water is the driving force of all nature.”
