The number of people living without access to clean water worldwide is staggering. According to the World Health Organization, 2.2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water. That said, only 3% of the world’s water is fresh, and just under two-thirds is tucked away in glaciers unavailable for our use.
But it’s important to understand why this crisis is so prevalent and must be fixed.
Firstly, climate change destroys the water systems that keep our ecosystems thriving. Rivers, lakes, and aquifers are drying up and becoming too polluted for countries worldwide to use.
That’s why FreeWater uses aluminum bottles and cartons to deliver fresh spring water.
Secondly, we are living in an era of hyper-consumption. Demand for water is skyrocketing. Agriculture explicitly consumes more water than any other source and has tremendous waste problems. According to the world bank, It accounts for roughly 70% of all freshwater withdrawals globally.
That’s why FreeWater sources its water from fresh springs across the USA. We are focused on sourcing water sustainably.
Lastly, water infrastructure is largely being ignored. A lack of attention to these natural infrastructures due to deforestation, overgrazing, and urbanization is leading to a loss of 22% of forests over the past 14 years. These are critical for sourcing water to essential areas.
That’s why FreeWater is committed to enhancing water infrastructure globally, giving 10 cents per bottle back to build wells worldwide.
Understanding the issues standing in the way of making water readily available for individuals across the globe is the first step to working towards a solution. While governments, citizens, and institutions are increasing regulations, businesses must lead the movement. At FreeWater, we are determined to tackle these issues to save lives and change the future of access to clean water. Why? Because water should be free.
