Archive for category: Clean Water Access

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Oxfam International and Ahmad Tea

Ahmad Tea Founded in 1942, Oxfam International aims to address the root causes of poverty and eradicate them. The organization uses various approaches in its fight against poverty, including specialized plans for specific areas and conditions. Oxfam International has vowed to continue its work fighting global poverty, collaborating with those affected by disasters and inequalities that persist at the moment. The organization continues to work on the frontlines, providing support and working to prevent further inequalities and prevent further inequalities. 

The History of Oxfam International

The organization started during World War II, a time when conflicts were widespread. Much of its initial work focused on providing support to communities devastated by the war. Oxfam International’s first major initiative,  “Greek Week,” saw British citizens unite to donate funds to the Greek Red Cross. This marked the beginning of Oxfam’s broader mission. It began providing support to developing countries and helping in times of disaster. The Oxfam shops started selling handmade items from developing countries, giving buyers unique crafts while also raising money for these countries. 

In 1963, Oxfam turned international with its first campaign outside of the United Kingdom (U.K.) being in Canada. Oxfam continued to grow, eventually reaching Latin America and other developing areas. Currently, Oxfam International has 21 organizations in 90 countries around the world. 

Oxfam’s Partners

Oxfam International partners with many other organizations and groups also working to fight against poverty. Whether these are local organizations or other international programs, the progress has been tremendous. Oxfam has partners that are local in areas that need more help. These local partners know the ins and outs of poverty, which provides valuable guidance and experience in trying to help combat these ongoing issues.

Oxfam also collaborates with campaign and corporate partners. Campaigning allies actively support the organization and help bring issues to larger audiences to increase awareness of the efforts that Oxfam International and other organizations are undertaking. Corporate partners, located in the U.K. and globally. These partners help in a variety of ways including donating a percentage of their income to Oxfam. 

Oxfam’s Partnership With Ahmad Tea

Since 2010, Ahmad Tea has partnered with Oxfam International in hopes of ending the water crisis in Niger, a landlocked country where a majority of the population lack access to safe and clean drinking water. Some people also lack access to proper sanitation facilities. Upon learning about Niger’s severe water issues and humanitarian crisis, Ahmad Tea decided to partner with Oxfam and fund projects that provide access to clean water. Since their partnership, the two have provided clean water to rural areas by supporting existing water systems and building new ones. Their initiatives have made it possible for more girls to go to school, seen an increase in agriculture and income and caused a drop in waterborne diseases. These efforts are not the only impacts of their program. 

Ahmad Tea also aimed to introduce better water management techniques. Studies revealed an underground water source deep beneath Niger. Although drilling for this water is costly, it promises to be an invaluable resource for communities struggling with water insecurity. On World Water Day, Danny Sriskandarajah, CEO of Oxfam Great Britain, discussed the partnership with Zahra Afshar, Head of Charity at Ahmad Tea. During their interview, Sriskandarajah shared his proudest moments, saying “I have lots of moments.” He also added that Oxfam is operating in some of the toughest areas.

Oxfam In Nepal

Nepal, a small country in Asia, faces significant with clean water access. According to UNICEF, more than three million people in Nepal lack access to clean water and services. Since arriving in Nepal, Oxfam International has worked to repair and establish new water supply schemes in two specific areas of the country, the Hills and Terai. During these efforts, Oxfam has teamed up with two other companies to best implement their strategies. 

The water systems in Nepal face significant sustainability issues, with many of the water pumps requiring repairs that often cost more than the actual benefits that people are getting out of them. To try and combat this issue, Oxfam International has introduced five new techniques aimed at increasing efficiency and effectiveness. These strategies are currently in implementation and are continuously being developed to better support the people of Nepal. With these frameworks in place, Oxfam and its partners are positioned to build on this success and implement newer technologies that may better suit Nepal.

Looking Ahead

Oxfam International’s commitment to addressing the root causes of poverty continues to drive its global efforts. Through partnerships and targeted initiatives, Oxfam has provided essential support in areas like Niger and Nepal, improving access to clean water and sustainable resources. As the organization expands its reach and refines its strategies, it remains dedicated to fostering resilience and equality in vulnerable communities worldwide.

– Dorothy Howard

Dorothy is based in Greensboro, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Rainwater Harvesting in Papua New Guinea

Rainwater Harvesting in Papua New GuineaAccess to clean water from a tap is a luxury that many people around the world take for granted every day. However, for millions, having easy access to drinking water remains a distant luxury. Making clean water sources available is a critical global priority, driving the creation and adoption of innovative technologies to supply water. This urgency has spurred the adoption of rainwater harvesting in Papua New Guinea, a technique for collecting fresh water that has the potential to transform lives globally. This method not only provides essential water but also represents a sustainable solution to water scarcity challenges.

The State of Earth’s Water

Water, essential for human life, is a basic need for survival. Despite 71% of the Earth’s surface being covered by water, water scarcity is a present reality, not a future problem, for many worldwide. Despite the large bodies of water on Earth, a mere 3% of water on Earth is fresh water. Even more startling, is that this statistic includes water inaccessible to humans, such as fresh water in the form of glaciers, icecaps, permafrost and water trapped deep within the Earth’s layers. With all of these barriers to freshwater access, it leaves humans with around 1-1.2% of the world’s water supply to supplement drinking water.

As the global population surpasses 8 billion, the quest for sustainable water sources becomes critical. This has led to innovative solutions like rainwater harvesting, a method that collects rain for various uses, demonstrating a practical approach to addressing the freshwater challenge.

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea, a nation on Oceania’s continent, consists of a mainland and numerous islands. Its surrounding waters and significant biodiversity rank it among Earth’s most geographically diverse locations. Nearly ten million people call Papua New Guinea home, with most living in the highlands and rural areas.

Living in rural areas largely contributes to water insecurity, with estimates indicating that only 40% of Papua New Guinea’s population can access safe water sources. This percentage reflects not only the individuals lacking access to clean drinking water but also those without proper sanitation facilities.

In Papua New Guinea, women and girls usually bear the responsibility of collecting water for their families, undertaking dangerous walks across rugged terrain. They carry thirty-pound jugs of water home in scorching temperatures. Waiting for nightfall might offer cooler temperatures, but it also increases the risk of exposure to violence. Despite the grueling journey that can take hours, they must fetch water for bathing, drinking, or even hospital visits.

Rainwater Harvesting in Papua New Guinea

To address these and other problems associated with water collection, rainwater harvesting is gaining popularity. It enables people to collect rainwater, creating a freshwater source right at their homes. Additionally, rainwater harvesting benefits the environment by reducing runoff, which in turn lessens erosion and contamination of other water sources typically resulting from standard rainfall.

Rainwater harvesting is transforming life for entire communities in Papua New Guinea. Individuals or families can implement it by channeling water from their rooftops into a collection system. With most people living outside urban areas, this method significantly reduces the need to walk long distances for fresh water. It also ensures that community resources like schools and hospitals have access to clean water, allowing them to operate in a higher-quality environment.

In the settlement of Kunu, implementing a rainwater harvesting system brought water to the community and completely changed the way of life for its residents. Before this, water for bathing, drinking, cleaning or any task that required water necessitated a three-hour walk in each direction. The women and children of the settlement responsible for this task would expose themselves to not only a physically difficult journey but one filled with potential for danger and violence.

To provide clean water access within Kunu, 14 water tanks holding 9,000 liters each were placed throughout the settlement, providing people with access to water in a way they have never had before. Residents of the settlement now have the ability to access water outside of their homes, without the risk of violence or victimization, something to be celebrated around the world. Rainwater harvesting in Papua New Guinea has continued to reach other settlements and hopefully, other settlements like Kunu will eventually have access to water through this system as well.

The Future of Fresh Water Access

The success of this project on a grand scale highlights the immense potential of rainwater harvesting to transform lives not only in Papua New Guinea but globally. In places like Kunu, reliable access to water has ushered in a joyous new way of life. Families no longer worry about the safety of their daughters and mothers and clean drinking water is now seen not as a privilege but as a fundamental human right. This shift marks a significant step toward ensuring that everyone enjoys the basic necessities of life, setting a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide.

– Alexandra Straumann
Photo: Unsplash

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Navigating Clean Water Access for Amputees in Sierra Leone

Clean water access in Sierra LeoneSierra Leone gained independence from the British empire in 1961 and, since emancipation, has faced extreme social and economic challenges. The Sierra Leonean Civil War, lasting from 1991 until 2002, was marked by the forceful amputation of the civilian population by the rebel soldiers. As many as 27,000 citizens are estimated to have had one or more of their limbs amputated during this time. In a population of approximately nine million people, about 70% are multidimensionally poor and only 10% have access to clean water. The prevalence of polluted water contributes to Sierra Leone’s ranking among countries having the lowest life expectancy in the world. Contaminated water sources increase the risk of diarrhea, respiratory infections, worm infections and malnutrition. Children are missing school to travel miles to collect water for their families. The water is most often polluted. This means that every year in Sierra Leone, over 1,200 children under 5 die from water-related diseases. 

Access To Clean Water for Amputees in Sierra Leone

Access to safe drinking water is limited even to individuals without disabilities. Therefore, it is even more severely limited for those who have lost limbs due to military amputation, mutilation or landmines that still reside under Sierra Leonean soil. Recently, The Borgen Project spoke with Sarah Hope, the founder of Elizabeth’s Legacy of Hope (ELoH), a charity that formerly gave prosthetics and support to amputees in Sierra Leone. Hope shared her recent visit to Sierra Leone with ELoH’s partner charity, World Hope International (WHI), highlighting the significant challenges faced by amputees. She noted, “It is very challenging for amputees. Many hundreds do not get given any form of prosthetics at all and mobility is almost impossible. Their legs are sore and painful and it is very difficult for them to get around.”

Thousands in Sierra Leone have experienced limb loss either as a result of the Civil War or due to landmines. However, small cuts and grazes also frequently contribute to amputations. Sarah explained, “When children graze themselves playing, their legs become infected and their parents take them to witch doctors. Wounds become infected and this can lead to amputation.”

People with disabilities often face challenges in collecting water. “Sometimes there are taps in villages, but often it is shared between far too many people and is inaccessible for amputees,” shared Hope. The drainage systems are inadequate when it rains. Therefore, spaces become flooded and roads impassable: “The water on the ground becomes dirty and extremely difficult for amputees to navigate around. It has often been washed up from a drain, mixed with soil and sewage. If they do not have clean water, they often must boil it first.” This presents another challenge. “In fact, I would say it is almost impossible for amputees to collect water. If they do not have a prosthetic leg on, they cannot walk to collect water. Even if they have crutches to help them walk, they do not have the arms to carry it.” On her recent visit, Hope shared she met many amputees who “do not go to school as their society believes that disabled children are not worth educating.”

Looking To the Future

Since 2018, WHI and ELoH have worked together to fund Enable the Children, a project that has successfully provided physiotherapy and occupational care to more than 1,000 disabled children in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The initiative works with schools, communities and families to ensure vital developmental support for child amputees.

In December 2020, the Freetown-Blue Peace project was launched collaboratively by the Freetown City Council (FCC), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF). This positive initiative aims to leverage innovative financial approaches to create sustainable water access in Sierra Leone. It acknowledges sufficient access to water as an intervention to prevent conflict and build peace. The project has facilitated the establishment of 25 public restrooms and 40 water kiosks in the country’s capital city. 

When Sierra Leone hosted elections in 2023, the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) organization actively advocated for parliamentarians, mayors, district chairmen and local councilors to prioritize drinking water. Through intensified advocacy, WASH succeeded in making 258 candidates across the political spectrum pledge to prioritize clean water in their proposed agendas. Historically, political advocacy has demonstrated its capacity to bring about positive change, as evidenced by the creation of a Ministry of Water Resources in the aftermath of Sierra Leone’s 2013 election. 

Conclusion

Access to clean water is an essential part of all human life. Without clean water, we cannot survive. It should be freely and readily available, not seen as a luxury. Supporting vital fundraising efforts like these will brighten the future for all amputees in Sierra Leone.

– Sapphire Hope
Photo: Flickr

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Harnessing Wastewater: Achieving SDG Target 6.3

 

SDG Target 6.3The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development identifies 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and SDG 6 focuses on universal access to water and sanitation services, emphasizing their long-term sustainability. SDG 6 divides into six specific target areas to accomplish this goal, each with its own defined objective. 

One of these targets, SDG Target 6.3, aims to address the issue of untreated wastewater while promoting recycling and safe reuse practices on a global scale by 2030.

SDG Target 6.3 Overview

SDG Target 6.3 comprises two indicators, 6.3.1 and 6.3.2, providing specific measurements to monitor progress. Indicator 6.3.1 assesses the proportion of domestic and industrial wastewater flows that undergo safe treatment. By monitoring this indicator, the UN can evaluate the effectiveness of the wastewater treatment process to protect public health and the environment. Indicator 6.3.2 measures the proportion of bodies of water that demonstrate good ambient water quality. This indicator helps the UN gauge water sources’ overall health and cleanliness, indicating progress in reducing pollution and preserving aquatic ecosystems. 

Botswana Case Study

Effective wastewater management plays a pivotal role in mitigating water scarcity issues in water-stressed countries. Botswana, renowned for being one of the most drought-prone countries globally, presents a compelling case study with its recurrent and extended periods of drought dating back to the 1950s. These droughts have severely affected food security, leaving more than 10% of the population grappling with chronic food insecurity. Moreover, the agricultural sector, upon which 70% of the rural population depends for their livelihoods, suffers greatly as irrigation and crop production primarily rely on rainfall. The adverse impact is exemplified by the staggering number of cattle deaths, with nearly 40,000 recorded during the 2018-2019 drought. 

To underscore the severity of the situation further, the World Bank’s calculations in 2020 revealed that Botswana’s freshwater withdrawal ratio stood at 2.31, indicating that the country consumes more freshwater than it has available.  

Recognizing the need to tackle these challenges and foster economic growth, the government of Botswana conducted a case study. The case study addresses how standards can be used for wastewater treatment and reuse, aligned with SDG Target 6.3, by improving water quality through pollution reduction. The government of Botswana developed national water standards based on international standards developed by the Water Quality Technical Committee through the Botswana Bureau of Standards. 

The government of Botswana involved its Department of Water Affairs in this case study by implementing these standards to treat wastewater discharged from its Headquarters through a constructed wetland system. The study then tested samples from this system for effluent quality in accordance with drinking standards, irrigation standards and wastewater discharge requirements. 

The results from the case study demonstrated that the constructed wetland system effectively treated wastewater for non-drinking purposes such as irrigation, construction and dust suppression. Emphasizing the potential impact of wastewater management, adequately treated wastewater can contribute 16% of Botswana’s available water resources. 

Implications for Developing Countries

The success of this case study demonstrates that other institutions in Botswana can replicate the use of constructed wetlands for on-site wastewater treatment and reuse for non-drinking purposes. However, the implications extend beyond Botswana. Globally, 80% of wastewater is released into the environment without adequate treatment. Jennifer Garner, Global Director of the World Bank Global Practice, emphasizes the crucial role of water treatment and reuse in addressing water scarcity and pollution issues, particularly considering that 36% of the global population resides in regions with limited water access. Properly treated wastewater can substitute fresh water in multiple applications, such as irrigation, industrial processes and recreational activities. Furthermore, it contributes to preserving natural ecosystems’ flow, while the by-products generated during the treatment process can be utilized to generate energy and nutrients. 

Access to water is essential for driving economic growth, supporting healthy ecosystems and sustaining life. Approximately 3.6 billion people worldwide lack safely managed sanitation services, disproportionately affecting developing countries. Developing countries can access clean water for irrigation, health and sustainable living by working towards SDG Target 6.3 and halving the proportion of untreated wastewater by 2030.

– Clara Swart
Photo: Flickr

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Clean Water Pills Combat Contaminated Water in Developing Countries

Clean Water PillsClean water pills have emerged as a simple solution for disinfecting contaminated water in developing countries. These innovative solutions are providing communities with a rapid and straightforward method to transform contaminated water sources into safe, potable water.

The Birth of the Clean Water Pill

The World Health Organization reports that at least 1.7 billion people drink water contaminated with feces, leading to numerous health issues, including waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery and typhoid. With the aim of tackling this pressing issue, several organizations have embarked on missions to devise simple and cost-effective solutions.

AquaTabs, founded in 1984 in Wexford, Ireland, developed water purification tablets that have been distributed in over 100 countries. When added to water, these tablets release chlorine, effectively killing most of the harmful microorganisms present. 

While AquaTabs sells over 1 billion tablets every year, many of these tablets are purchased by aid agencies and similar groups to bring to communities or relief efforts. For instance, during the response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake, numerous aid organizations such as GlobalMedic, utilized AquaTabs and similar companies to provide clean drinking water to affected communities.

How Clean Water Pills Work

When the tablet is dropped into contaminated water, it dissolves quickly and goes to work immediately. Chlorine, the active ingredient, targets and neutralizes harmful pathogens, making the water safe for consumption. Chlorine tablets serve as a powerful defense mechanism for water sanitation by eliminating harmful contaminants. They guarantee potable water fit for consumption. 

Beyond rendering drinking water safe, these tablets are essential in the sanitization of fruits and vegetables. Chlorination, the process through which they work, is a universally well-recognized method of water treatment. In regions that are economically struggling, these tablets represent an efficient and cost-effective approach to ensuring water safety.

Organizations Leading the Charge

  • Ef-Chlor – Founded in 1977, in India, Ef-Chlor has been a significant player in the water purification industry. They produce water purification tablets that are widely used in emergency situations, disaster relief and by individuals in areas where clean water is scarce. Ef-Chlor’s tablets are not only used for drinking water but also for disinfecting fruits and vegetables, making them a versatile solution in areas with limited access to clean water resources. Their commitment to providing an affordable and efficient water purification method has made them a preferred choice for many humanitarian aid organizations worldwide.
  • PureMadi – PureMadi, a nonprofit organization founded in 2011 at the University of Virginia, introduced the MadiDrop, a ceramic tablet infused with silver or copper nanoparticles. Developed with a vision to provide affordable water purification solutions, the MadiDrop releases silver or copper ions when placed in a household water storage container, disinfecting the water. PureMadi collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities, ensuring that the MadiDrop reaches those in need, especially in regions with limited access to clean water.

The Impact and The Way Forward

The introduction of clean water pills has not only addressed the issue of polluted water but has also significantly reduced the incidence of waterborne diseases in communities where they’ve been introduced. As the world continues to face environmental and infrastructural challenges, simple and effective solutions like the clean water pill will be essential in ensuring safe drinking water for all.

– Laeticia Mbangue
Photo: Flickr

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Innovative Solutions for Clean Water Access

Solutions to Clean Water
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet millions of people in developing countries still lack safe and reliable water sources. The scarcity of clean water poses serious health risks, perpetuates poverty and hinders socio-economic development. The following is an exploration of innovative technologies and approaches that are revolutionizing solutions for clean water access in resource-limited settings, offering hope for a sustainable future.

Challenges of Clean Water Access in Developing Countries

In many developing regions, limited infrastructure for water supply and sanitation leads to inadequate access to clean water and increased waterborne diseases. Unsafe water sources often become contaminated with pollutants, pathogens and dangerous chemicals, posing severe health risks to communities relying on them for drinking and daily needs. Additionally, the impact of climate change exacerbates water scarcity in certain regions, making it crucial to find adaptive and resilient solutions for clean water access.

Moreover, resource-limited settings often face financial barriers to implementing and maintaining clean water solutions, hindering progress in improving water access. Further to this, the high costs associated with traditional water treatment plants and distribution systems may not be feasible for communities with limited funds and resources.

Innovative Solutions for Clean Water Access

  1. Solar-Powered Water Purification: Innovative solar-powered water purification systems use sunlight to disinfect water, eliminating harmful pathogens and contaminants. These systems are sustainable, cost-effective and suitable for off-grid communities, providing access to safe drinking water in areas with limited infrastructure.
  2. Water ATMs: Water ATMs are automated water dispensing machines that provide safe and affordable water to communities. Users can access clean water by paying with prepaid cards or mobile payments, ensuring a steady and reliable supply without the need for extensive infrastructure.
  3. Fog Harvesting: Fog harvesting technology collects water droplets from fog and condenses them into clean drinking water. This solution is particularly beneficial in arid regions where traditional water sources are scarce, offering a unique and eco-friendly approach to water access.
  4. Bio-Sand Filters: Bio-sand filters are simple, low-cost devices that remove impurities from water. They are easy to maintain and have proven effective in reducing waterborne diseases, making them suitable for resource-limited settings.
  5. Mobile Water Treatment Units: Mobile water treatment units equipped with advanced filtration and purification systems can be deployed to disaster-stricken and remote areas, providing immediate access to clean water during emergencies and natural disasters.
  6. Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater for domestic use. This eco-friendly approach is especially valuable in regions with regular rainfall but limited access to clean water sources, providing a sustainable water supply.
  7. Water Quality Monitoring Apps: Mobile apps that enable communities to monitor water quality in real-time empower them to identify potential contamination and take proactive measures to ensure safe water access. These apps bridge the gap in water testing capabilities in remote areas.

Conclusion

Access to clean water is vital for economic development and poverty alleviation. Therefore, it is important that we understand the importance of finding solutions for clean water to address these critical needs.

The challenges of providing clean water in developing countries demand innovative and sustainable solutions. Solar-powered purification, water ATMs, fog harvesting and other emerging technologies could go a long way to ensure clean water access for all.

Embracing these innovative approaches alongside community engagement and international cooperation has the potential to give developing nations a brighter future. One in which clean water is readily available to every person, regardless of their socio-economic status.

– Mihir Naik
Photo: Flickr

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UNICEF’s Make a Splash! Expands Hygiene Access for 5.6 Million

UNICEF's Make a Splash
Since 2018, UNICEF’s Make a Splash! campaign has sought to expand access to clean water for those who need it most. The partnership with LIXIL has managed to improve sanitation conditions for 5.6 million people in 2022 alone. Here is some information about this campaign and how it is changing the lives of countless people in developing countries.

What is the Make a Splash! Campaign? 

UNICEF’s partnership with LIXIL, a Tokyo-based organization of companies manufacturing plumbing equipment, has proved wildly successful since its initial launch in 2018. The campaign aims to increase the accessibility of clean water in six countries: India, Indonesia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Tanzania. 

The Make a Splash! campaign pursues a number of different avenues to accomplish its goals, including the endorsement of government policies expanding access to clean water, the installation of plumbing fixtures and sanitation training. The partnership is designed to take definitive action toward the World Health Organization’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in access to sanitation services. 

By the Numbers 

In 2022, Make a Splash! provided nearly 3 million people with access to sanitation services and 2.7 million with access to hand-washing facilities. Much of this was accomplished through the installation of SATO equipment, a subsidiary of LIXIL focused on manufacturing accessible hygiene products

Additionally, the program trained more than 300,000 stakeholders on safe and effective sanitation practices. Make a Splash! also improved a number of information systems relating to sanitation and endorsed government policies increasing sanitation access, and strengthening hygiene infrastructure in the long run. 

Long-Term Impacts

The program emphasizes innovation in sanitation technologies, with the goal of increasing sustainability in the hygiene industry. The partnership with LIXIL sets a standard of accessibility and affordability of sanitation products and services, making a large impact not only on the quality of life in these areas but also on the sanitation industry itself. LIXIL has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the campaign, helping to support these endeavors and provide clean and sanitary facilities in some of the world’s poorest countries. 

Why it Matters

UNICEF’s Make a Splash! partnership was founded in order to push the world closer to achieving SDGs for the year 2030. These dramatic efforts are intended to accelerate global attempts to reach these targets in the area of sanitation. The campaign sets an example for companies in the hygiene industry to help push these efforts further toward SDG targets, which are in desperate need of increased attention. 

SDG Targets 6.1 and 6.2 focus on expanding and improving sanitation services around the world. Access to hygienic facilities significantly increases the quality of life in affected areas, including reduced spread of disease, decreased severity of malnutrition and improvements in safety, particularly for young girls. 

The impact of these services is so notable that the World Health Organization (WHO) states that for each dollar invested in increased access to sanitation, $5.50 is returned in productivity, decreased health costs and increased lifespan. 

Conclusion

The results of UNICEF’s Make a Splash! campaign has changed the lives of millions in the world’s poorest regions. Through its partnership with LIXIL, UNICEF has managed to make sustainable improvements in sanitation access and infrastructure for those who need it most. 

– Mary Burke
Photo: Flickr

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Stanford’s New Powder Disinfects Contaminated Drinking Water

Stanford's New PowderWith more than 2 billion people lacking access to safe drinking water, the challenge of water scarcity looms large. According to UNICEF, nearly half of the global population could face water scarcity by 2025. To address this impending crisis, researchers at Stanford University are pioneering a novel approach: a powder that swiftly purifies contaminated water. Unlike conventional methods, this innovative solution utilizes sunlight to eliminate bacteria within a minute. The introduction of innovative solutions like Stanford’s powder presents a pathway toward achieving widespread and enduring access to clean drinking water.

The Study

On May 18, 2023, Stanford University published results from their study about a powder that disinfects contaminated drinking water. The technology is unique because it reacts with the sun’s UV rays and “high-energy visible light.” It then creates chemicals that attack bacteria’s cell membranes to kill them. Scientists found that the powder is so effective it can disinfect drinking water in just 60 seconds.

Stanford’s new powder is made from metallic “nano-sized flakes of copper, iron oxide, aluminum oxide and molybdenum sulfide” that are cost-effective and readily available. The product is sustainable because the metals are easy to make and reuse. A magnet collects the metallic “nanoflakes” from clean water, then places them in new contaminated water. The water is safe to drink immediately after decontamination due to the chemical byproducts breaking down into water and oxygen. In the study, one dose of recycled powder disinfected 30 water samples. Since water treatments are scarce, reusing the product allows people to have longer access to clean water.

This is great progress because current treatments add chemicals that leave behind toxic byproducts and utilize ultraviolet light, which requires electricity. And these constraints make it difficult to implement water treatments on a large scale. 

Water Scarcity

In areas where water is scarce, there are few opportunities to find a source of safe drinking water. Consuming contaminated water exposes people to preventable diseases such as diarrhea, typhoid and cholera. Diarrhea causes an estimated 446,000 deaths per year among children younger than 5 years old, or 9% of all deaths for children in that age range. Adequate access to clean water allows for better hygiene and sanitation practices.

The scientists used E. coli in their study, which is a widespread contaminant that causes fecal-oral diseases. With 1.7 billion children younger than 5 years old suffering from diarrhea, this technology could provide relief from preventable waterborne illnesses. 

Looking Toward the Future

Stanford University’s groundbreaking powder has the potential to revolutionize clean drinking water access for the approximately 2 billion individuals worldwide who lack it. Furthermore, the wide distribution of this powder could enable those already using water treatments to embrace improved hygiene and sanitation practices. Notably, gaining access to a consistent and safe water source significantly enhances individuals’ health and overall quality of life.

Tong Wu, the co-lead author of the project, expressed, “We believe that our novel technology will facilitate revolutionary changes in water disinfection and inspire more innovations.” This recyclable and nontoxic powder represents a pioneering development. The powder’s scalability and distribution potential render it a viable and practical solution for individuals facing restricted access to safe water sources.

– Diana Grant
Photo: Flickr

Diamond Electrodes Provide Safe Water in Rural Africa

Water in Rural AfricaIn the continent of Africa, around 418 million people do not have access to safe drinking water and 779 million people live without basic sanitation. Narrowing in on sub-Saharan Africa, lack of clean water access occurs due to inadequate infrastructural investments, relentless droughts, a growing population and poor sanitation, which results in the contamination of water supplies. This leads to further problems such as the transmission of diseases including diarrhea, cholera, dysentery and typhoid, placing pressure on health care facilities. Water insecurity can also reduce life chances, especially for girls, as many have to walk long distances in search of water instead of attending school. This increases gender inequality and exacerbates the cycle of poverty. SafeWaterAfrica is an EU-funded project, first introduced in 2016, that aims to provide access to clean water in rural areas of Africa.

The SafeWaterAfrica Project

The SafeWaterAfrica initiative, coordinated by Fraunhofer IST, focuses on targeting water security sustainably and cost-effectively using a combination of pre-existing and new technology. It has developed an innovative water treatment system that will provide easier and safe access to water by efficiently removing harmful pathogens and pollutants. This will also create opportunities for jobs within communities as locals can operate the system, utilizing it as a source of reliable income.

There are two demonstrator plants already working in the water-stressed regions of Mozambique and South Africa, each successfully providing “100m3 of WHO-quality water per day” from river water. South Africa’s unit is near Johannesburg and has been in operation since September 2018. In Mozambique, the unit is in Ressano Garcia and first started providing safe water in April 2019. Due to the environmental and economic benefits of the project, it received the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label award from the Solar Impulse Foundation.

How It Works

Initially, the water undergoes pre-treatment where a salt coagulant converts pollutants into a precipitate which column filtration easily removes. The water is then disinfected and purified using “carbon-based electrochemical oxidation” where the water flows through electrochemical cells with diamond-coated electrodes. Next, two electrodes apply a low voltage current, producing ozone which works to decompose harmful microbes and pollutants, thereby making the water safe to drink. The plants are self-sufficient, sustainable and relatively low-cost because sunlight powers the systems through solar cells and batteries which also protect the environment.

Looking Forward

SafeWaterAfrica has provided accessible sources of safe water, enabling people to spend less time collecting water and increasing school attendance. This initiative has been of particular benefit to girls, as it enables them to pursue greater opportunities for future employment and escape poverty. The flexibility of the technology makes it easy to install in remote and rural areas across sub-Saharan Africa, allowing it to reach those most in need of a safe water supply.

Improved sources of water also lead to less expenditure on health, as people are less likely to become ill due to diseases resulting from that contaminated water. According to the WHO, globally, “more than 2 billion people live in water-stressed countries” and around “2 billion people use a drinking water source contaminated with feces.” In light of these facts, projects such as SafeWaterAfrica play a vital role in encouraging development, improving health and livelihood and maximizing future opportunities through the provision of safe water.

– Isla Wright
Photo: Flickr

Takeaways from the UN 2023 Water Conference

UN 2023 Water ConferenceFrom March 22-24, 2023, the first U.N. conference on water in the last 46 years took place in New York. With a doubling of the global population since the last conference in 1977, the need for access to clean water has skyrocketed, making this event all the more crucial.

Ensuring access to water and sanitation is one of the 17 interlinked sustainable development goals (SDG) to transform our world, set in 2015 by the United Nations as a call for action by all countries to end poverty.

However, despite the importance of water, the U.N.’s data on SDG 6 shows a bleak reality. According to the data released prior to the water conference, if current trends persist, by 2030, 1.6 billion people will still lack access to safely managed drinking water, 2.8 billion will not have access to safely managed sanitation facilities and 1.9 billion will be deprived of basic hand hygiene facilities.

Water is not only essential to health but also to food security and ecosystems, so it is closely connected to poverty reduction. It is essential to all industries and needs to be valued and treated as the vital resource it is. The United Nations Conference on Water is just the beginning of a global effort to ensure access to clean water for all.

U.N. 2023 Water Conference Takeaways

Five key themes were addressed during the conference: water for health, water for sustainable development, water for climate, resilience and environment, water for cooperation and Water Action Decade. Here are some of the most important takeaways:

  1. The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, emphasized the urgent need to modernize infrastructure and explore new public-private partnerships to manage the water crisis of the 21st century. He called for greater private sector investment in water and sanitation: regulating private sector participation would mean benefitting from data, management techniques and other resources previously unavailable. This was an idea echoed throughout the conference by most delegates.
  2. Water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) is a salient issue in promoting gender equality. In many countries, girls and women handle the oftentimes dangerous responsibility of retrieving water for their families, sometimes at the expense of their education. Delegates have agreed to massively invest in water and sanitation systems.
  3. Water is a crucial issue for achieving sustainable development goals, as 90% of natural disasters are water-related, and none of the other goals can be achieved without addressing the water crisis. Guterres also confirmed that water-linked natural catastrophes can be a source of heightened geopolitical and international tension, as they cause forced migrations and displacement of communities. The World Bank’s Groundswell report shows that disasters linked to water could cause up to 216 million people to move within their countries by 2050. Some of these tensions could be mitigated by putting water at the forefront of the political agenda.
  4. Water is rarely contained by borders; however, solutions often are, as they exist in geographies that are very local. Transboundary water cooperation is essential to scale up technological solutions globally, such as updates to wastewater and storm management systems to better handle sudden surges in water levels.
  5. Finally, after a mention by most, if not all, delegates, the conference concluded with the appointment of a U.N. special envoy for water to keep the issue high on the political agenda and raise awareness of SDG 6 and investment opportunities in water.

Importantly, contributing internationally to improve a capacity for water security is not about aid. Rather, it is an investment that is going to pay off for donor countries as well. Clean water supports lives, creates jobs and drives inclusive economic growth, all while ensuring sustainable development. It should be seen as a fundamental platform for economic prosperity and development, rather than an environmental issue.

Overall, the U.N. 2023 Water Conference provided invaluable insight into the most pressing water-related issues facing our planet, such as water sanitation and hygiene, climate resilience and transboundary cooperation. It has also emphasized the need for public-private partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms to support the development of water infrastructure.

To achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030, global leaders need to remain ambitious and continue to work together to ensure that all individuals have access to sustainably managed water and sanitation services. The appointment of a U.N. special envoy for water is a promising step in the right direction to ensure that no one is left behind.

– Hanna Bernard
Photo: Flickr