Safe drinking water is a right, not a luxury. Here's how to ensure no one goes thirsty

“Thousands have lived without love, not one without water,” the poet W.H. Auden once said. Access to clean drinking water is a basic life necessity that increasingly appears to be a luxury; one enjoyed by far too few. According to the United Nations’ World Water Development Report 2024, 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water, while 3.5 billion lack access to safely managed sanitation services. The situation is worsening, as climate change continues to exacerbate water scarcity, and sources of safe drinking water become increasingly subject to conflict and war.

Though 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, only 1% is available for human consumption and not all of that significantly small portion is clean. Every 10 seconds, a person dies due to a lack of access to clean water – and communities suffer bacterial infections, parasites and dehydration. Families often dedicate their limited funds to purchasing materials to purify water, or are forced to buy bottled water. Children’s education is impacted by missing school days caused by waterborne illness.

Continue reading to learn more, written by Christian Troy and Riley Garrison.

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Medya Mansyone

Smartwater bottles have a useful shape that fits well in skinny pack pockets and, more importantly, they're compatible with hikers' favorite water filter, the Sawyer Squeeze.

Danielle Vilaplana
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Medya Mansyone

The simple design is easy to use and you’ll find it has a long life with reliable, high output.

Mikaela Ruland
Editor in Chief

Medya Mansyone

It's fragrance-free and safe for use on the whole family, clothing, shoes, and gear.

Libby Sentz
Contributing Writer & Editor