US Legislative Priorities: Clean Water

Almost one billion people in the world lack access to safe drinking water and two of every five people live without basic sanitation services. Diarrheal diseases and related malnutrition account for virtually all of the deaths and nearly 90% of the overall disease burden associated with unsafe water supply, sanitation and hygiene. 42% of the sub-Saharan African population lack improved drinking water sources. In 16 African countries, less than 25% of the population has access to sanitation. In sub-Saharan Africa, 46 percent of all child deaths are from diarrhea, and water-related diseases create a burden most countries of the region are ill-equipped to carry. While many countries are on track to meet the internationally agreed goals (MDGs) on drinking water and sanitation, many others -- particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa -- are not.

ONE supports legislation that sets an American goal of reaching 100 million people worldwide to improve their access to clean water and sanitation by 2015.

Take Action:

Ask your representative/senator to cosponsor the 'Water for the World' Act.

House Bill - (H.R.2030) introduced by Representative Earl Blumenauer (D-OR).
Senate Bill - (S.624) introduced by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Bob Corker (R-TN).