A new study reveals that 4.4 billion people in low- and middle-income countries lack access to clean household drinking water, doubling previous estimates.
In short:
- A new study shows that 4.4 billion people don't have safe drinking water at home, doubling previous estimates.
- The study used geospatial data and household surveys to better measure water access in rural areas.
- Fecal contamination is a significant problem, with nearly half of the population in the study affected.
Key quote:
"The fact that so many people around the world do not have reasonable access to safe drinking water must give us pause for thought. This could be avoided."
— Martin Ackermann, director of Eawag, an aquatic research institute
Why this matters:
Safe drinking water is critical for health, yet billions are at risk from contaminated sources. Effective data and targeted investments are essential to address this growing global crisis.
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