Water Scarcity
Water scarcity is defined as a lack of freshwater to meet the needs of the population. Many estimate that by 2025 half of the world’s population will be living in water-stressed areas.
Combatting water scarcity has been a high priority of many organizations and ministries. In fact, the World Health Organization has also made clean water a priority. Over a decade ago, the UN General Assembly clearly recognized the need: “Everyone has the right to sufficient, continuous, safe, acceptable, physically accessible, and affordable water for personal and domestic use.”1
There are numerous causes of fresh-water shortage. Here is a sampling:
Pollution in water
More people and the resulting development has caused changes in water ecosystems. As populations grow, demand grows with it. For example, more water is needed for agriculture and industrial needs. Domestic needs also rise as more people are drinking water, preparing food, watering their yards and using water in their homes. As population grows, the water infrastructure often lags behind and contributes to the crisis.
Population growth
More people and the resulting development has caused changes in water ecosystems. As populations grow, demand grows with it. For example, more water is needed for agriculture and industrial needs. Domestic needs also rise as more people are drinking water, preparing food, watering their yards and using water in their homes. As population grows, the water infrastructure often lags behind and contributes to the crisis.
Damaged infrastructure
Pipes, treatment plants, pumps, and so on, are in disrepair in many parts of the world. This is a universal problem but often hits impoverished countries the hardest. Aging infrastructure causes tremendous loss of water, leaving even less water available to the area. Community and government leaders are being called upon to better protect and distribute water more safely and efficiently.
What are the solutions to water scarcity? At GFA World, we have been very successful in helping communities through the installation of water wells and the use of BioSand water filters in individual homes. We understand the importance of water in the lives of people:
“We attack the water crisis globally by installation of wells in a village or BioSand filters in homes. We did a study in our medical camps and found the No. 1 issue for children in South Asia was either diarrhea or upper respiratory infections. Our ultimate goal to give kids an education so they can get a better job is compromised if they’re sick.”
K.P. Yohannan, GFA World founder
BioSand water filters make water 98 percent pure and can last up to 20 years if properly cared for. These filters use concrete and sand to remove impurities, pathogens and suspended solids from water, making the water safe for cooking and drinking. These filters can also remove discoloration, odor and unpleasant taste. They run without electricity making them a great option for many around the world who lack power resources. For only $30, GFA World can manufacture and distribute a BioSand water filter for a family in Asia or Africa.
Jesus Wells are dug 200 meters deep to ensure water is available year round. The most common well is the India Mark II model, which is heavy-duty and durable. The wells last approximately 20 years (averaging eight hours of use daily). Jesus Wells are maintained by local churches, and these pastors enjoy providing safe water for their communities. These wells cost $1,400 on average to install and can serve 300 or more people with safe water.
GFA World’s water initiatives through BioSand water filters and Jesus Wells have been wise investments for those who are passionate about curing water stress. In 2019, over 12,243 BioSand water filters were given to families through GFA World and their partners. These filters bring healthy water options and dignity to families across the developing world. Additionally, water independence brings freedom from walking miles for fresh water, allowing more time for education and employment. Clean water brings hope for the future.
Water scarcity in Africa and Asia is a serious problem. GFA is committed to helping one family or one community at a time—resulting in life-changing refreshment. Clean water is a necessity of life, and when you gift it to someone in need, it brings life-giving hope!
1 Drinking Water Fact Sheet. World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs391/en/. March 2018.