Over 2 billion people have gained access to cleaner water resources since 1990. 89% of the global population now has access to “improved” sources of water, which many consider to be a major stride given the booming populations in many developing nations. A report from the United Nations and World Health Organization found that the Millennium Development Goal to halve the number of people without safe drinking water was met in 2010, five years ahead of schedule. However, this assessment is somewhat controversial because water quality and regular availability are not guaranteed. Furthermore, the progress that has been made has not been very even, with 780 million people (mostly in sub-Saharan Africa) still without access to clean water. Still, however, this is a significant step in the right direction.
Gary Monitz
