Safe drinking water is usually linked to health, and much rightly so.  In 2017, diarrhea diseases accounts for 10% of all child deaths.  This concern is heavily monitored by the World Health Organization (WHO).

However, if we study the state of communities, the lack of access to safe drinking water is not just an issue on health.  It also reflects in economic, disaster preparedness, and the environment.  The figure below sums up the layers of this issue:

From its impact on health, access to safe drinking water is an economic issue.  Water has a cost, and this cost is a burden to impoverished communities.  Worse case, the community might settle on less safe alternatives and be exposed to the risk of contamination and disease.

Water is also among the primary need during disasters and emergencies.  Communities, especially in developing countries, are seldom prepared due to a lot of factors including economic, culture, and governance.  In the event that water access is really cut off, communities end up paying more, or have no choice but to rely on aid and relief.

Lastly, it impacts the environment.  Bottling and transporting water incurs a huge carbon footprint, not to mention the accumulated single-use plastics which adds to waste and pollution.

We should push for innovation and sustainability in answering the need for safe drinking water.  It is more than just our health; it is the over-all quality of life in our planet.

Do you know of any communities that can benefit from safe water solutions? Let us know!  We are excited to work with you in bringing sustainable development.  To help achieve clean and safe drinking water for all, send us an email at giftinglife@force21.cwtlimited.com

Liezel Salera, Assistant Manager
Community Outreach and Development