Dirty Water Around the World

You may not notice it, but you use about 4.5 gallons of water a day. That’s about twice as much as the average African/Asian person. Water is a valuable resource that many people take advantage of. People in Africa and some of Asia are lacking the sanitary needs for daily consumption. Only about half of Asia’s water is clean, and only two-fifths of Africa’s water is clean. We shouldn’t let these poor people suffer while we enjoy something that may be so precious in another country. We should do something to help.

Much of the water that folks in Africa drink contains millions of bacteria that could lead to diseases. Some of which could lead to death. The majority of deaths are in children because they are so vulnerable to disease. They say that every 15 seconds, a child dies of one of those diseases. Some very poor people move to cities in search of better jobs so they can support their families. Sometimes that means that they have to live in shanty towns where they don’t receive the “good” water. Higher class people get the water that the others need. Since countries like Africa/Asia are using their water on mostly crops and animals, they have to use the remains for themselves. The issue like deforestation and erosion are also destroying the streams and rivers, valuable water sources. What may surprise you is the tourism is swallowing up some of the water too. Do you have an idea about what is going on? Good, because you can help.

These people may keep suffering unless we do something to help. Some ways we could help is to support people that are donating water filters or other cleaning devices. Sending clean water there is also a good idea. So the next time you enjoy the pleasures of clean water think about those who may not have it.


Emily L.