The Causes
Lack of Access
A lack of access to clean water is a serious concern globally. Families often have to travel long distances by foot in order to gather clean water. Approximately 30% of people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water facilities. While the percentage of people using better water sources has risen, almost 1,000 children each day still die because of water and sanitation related diseases. Evidently, there is still a long way to go.
Pollution
Pollution is also a major concern in the effort for safe and accessible water. Pollution of usable water takes many forms, from oil spills to human waste. The variety of water pollution results in water that contains birth control pills, pesticides, and fertilizers, sunscreen, and other harmful contaminants. In developing countries, 70% of waste from industries is dumped into the water.
Pollution
The Effects
Health
Health issues are one of the most immediate effects of contaminated water. While healthy adults might survive drinking bacteria-ridden water, the elderly, children, and pregnant women are easily susceptible to disease. The clean water crisis has added to the health crisis that many developing countries already face. Clearly, improving the livelihood of people, especially those in developing countries, begins with clean water.
Women and Children
Women and children are two of the most impacted demographic groups by the clean water crisis. While their male counterparts make a living, women are often in charge of collecting water for their families. However, women are often busy taking care of younger children and managing the household. Older children may also partake in collecting water. The amount of time wasted in collecting this necessary liquid prevents many women and children from working or getting an education.
Environment
Unclean water also has an impact on ecosystems and the rest of the animal kingdom. Animals, like humans, rely on freshwater that is becoming more scarce. Pollution in rivers and lakes is toxic to many animals in the same way that it is toxic to humans. Oil spills and leaks can harm freshwater and marine life. Additionally, soil and rainwater with acid can harm plant species. Clearly, the effects of the clean water crisis are far-reaching, even touching other species.
Poverty and the Economy
With so much of the population focusing on collecting water, the economies of developing countries continue to lag. Implementing water sanitation systems requires a more developed economy; communities cannot break the cycle of poverty. Due to a lack of clean water, these communities will also have a harder time growing sustainable crops. Indeed, a lack of clean water can keep communities in poverty.