Follow
Drinking water is water used for drinking or food preparation; Potable water is water that is safe to use as drinking water. The amount of drinking water needed to maintain good health varies and depends on physical activity level, age, health-related problems and environmental conditions. Those working in hot climates may need up to 16 liters (4.2 US gal) per day. Generally in developed countries, tap water meets drinking water quality standards, although only a small proportion is consumed or used in food preparation. Other common uses of tap water include washing, toileting and irrigation. Greywater can also be used for toilets or irrigation. However, its use for irrigation may be associated with risks. Water may also be unacceptable due to levels of toxins or suspended solids.
Globally, by 2015, 89% of people got their water from safe drinking sources – called improved water sources. In sub-Saharan Africa, 40% to 80% of the population has access to potable water. About 4.2 billion people worldwide had access to tap water, while another 2.4 billion had access to wells or public taps. The World Health Organization considers access to safe drinking-water a basic human right.
About 1 to 2 billion people lack safe drinking water. Water can carry disease vectors. More people die from unsafe water than from war, then-U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in 2010. Third world countries are the most affected by water scarcity, flooding and water quality. Up to 80 percent of illnesses in developing countries are a direct result of inadequate water and sanitation.
