Water for Life: Making It Happen

Every day, diarrhoeal diseases from easily preventable causes claim the lives of approximately 5 000 young children throughout the world. Sufficient and better quality drinking water and basic sanitation can cut this toll dramatically, and simple, low-cost household water treatment has the potential to save further lives. As we enter the International Decade for Action Water for Life 2005–2015, this report makes clear that achieving the target of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation will bring a payback worth many times the investment involved. It will also bring health, dignity and transformed lives to many millions of the world’s poorest people. The humanitarian case for action is blindingly apparent. The economic case is just as strong.