Why Every Child Needs Drinking Water

Contaminated water sources and unreliable water infrastructure make daily life challenging for billions of people.

What to know:

  • Billions lack access to safe drinking water, leading to poor health and education setbacks for millions of children.
  • Climate action, improved infrastructure, and innovative water purification can all address barriers to clean drinking water.
  • Test your knowledge and learn how we can all help ensure access to clean drinking water for everyone.

Learn More about this cause:

Access to clean water is life-changing, especially for children. Around the world, billions of people lack this basic need, and their lives are profoundly affected. Without clean water, children are at higher risk of deadly diseases, struggle to attend school, and face a future with limited opportunities. Each day without safe drinking water brings a new set of challenges and dangers, jeopardizing the health and dreams of entire communities. 

The impact of clean water on our lives is immense.  Clean water reduces the risk of life-threatening illnesses like cholera and dysentery, allowing children to be healthy, play, learn, and thrive. The availability of clean water also means fewer hours spent collecting water, a burden which disproportionately falls to women and girls, freeing up precious time to attend school regularly and pursue other economic opportunities for their families. 

Household water treatment products play a crucial role in expanding access to clean water. One example is the P&G Purifier of Water packet, the innovation behind the P&G Children's Safe Drinking Water Program. Designed as a mini water treatment plant the size of a tea bag, one packet can purify 10 liters of contaminated water in just 30 minutes using only a bucket, a spoon, a cloth, and a cloth. This solution has provided 23 billion liters of clean drinking water to generations of children across more than 100 countries. 

By understanding the critical role clean water plays in our lives, we can all contribute to making a difference. Now, Global Citizen is partnering with the P&G Children's Safe Drinking Water Program to raise awareness and advocate for solutions to help ensure every child has the chance to enjoy a healthy and hopeful future. Your involvement can turn the tide, making clean water a reality for more children.