SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), part of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Clean water is essential for health, economic development, and environmental sustainability, yet 2.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and over 4 billion lack proper sanitation.

Access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right and a key driver of public health and economic progress. Improving water systems leads to:
✅ Lower disease and mortality rates
✅ Better hygiene and sanitation in communities
✅ Increased agricultural and industrial productivity
✅ Preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity

How Can We Achieve SDG 6?

Governments, businesses, and individuals must collaborate to:
💧 Improve water infrastructure and access to sanitation
💧 Reduce water pollution and promote wastewater treatment
💧 Encourage water conservation and sustainable management
💧 Enhance resilience to climate-related water crises

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Innovative Solutions for SDG 6: Companies & Initiatives Transforming Water Access

Achieving SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation requires technological advancements, policy enforcement, and community-driven solutions. Across the world, NGOs, water tech companies, and social enterprises are working to provide safe drinking water, improve sanitation, and protect water resources.

From smart water purification systems and rainwater harvesting to sanitation projects in underserved regions, these innovations prove that sustainable water management can be achieved through collaboration.

Below, we highlight the most impactful companies and initiatives advancing SDG 6 and ensuring clean water access for future generations.

👉 Explore the list and be part of the change! 💦🌍

10 projects in Argentina contributing to SDG 6

Find SDG 6 Projects in your country! Where are you located?

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FAQ on SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Agenda 2030)

1. What is SDG 6?

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation is the sixth goal of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under Agenda 2030. It aims to ensure universal access to clean drinking water, proper sanitation, and sustainable water management.

2. Why is SDG 6 important?

Water is essential for human survival, agriculture, industry, and ecosystems. Without proper water and sanitation, communities face disease outbreaks, food insecurity, and economic instability.

3. What are the key targets of SDG 6?

Some major targets include:

  • 6.1: Ensure universal and equitable access to safe drinking water.
  • 6.2: Provide adequate sanitation and hygiene for all.
  • 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and wastewater.
  • 6.4: Increase water-use efficiency and sustainable withdrawals.
  • 6.5: Implement integrated water resources management.
  • 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems.

4. How does SDG 6 relate to Agenda 2030?

SDG 6 is closely linked to good health (SDG 3), food security (SDG 2), and climate action (SDG 13). Sustainable water management supports economic growth, ecosystem protection, and disaster resilience.

5. What are the biggest challenges to achieving SDG 6?

Some key challenges include:

  • Water scarcity due to climate change and overuse.
  • Pollution from industrial waste and agriculture.
  • Lack of infrastructure for sanitation in rural areas.
  • Unequal access to water resources between regions.

6. How can governments help achieve SDG 6?

Governments can:

  • Invest in water infrastructure and sanitation services.
  • Enforce regulations to prevent water pollution.
  • Promote rainwater harvesting and efficient water use.
  • Ensure fair water distribution and resource management.

7. What role do businesses play in SDG 6?

Businesses can:

  • Develop water-efficient technologies and products.
  • Reduce water waste in manufacturing and operations.
  • Support clean water initiatives in local communities.
  • Advocate for corporate responsibility in water management.

8. How can individuals contribute to SDG 6?

Individuals can:

  • Reduce daily water consumption at home.
  • Avoid products that contribute to water pollution.
  • Support organizations providing clean water access.
  • Raise awareness about water conservation.

9. How is progress on SDG 6 measured?

The UN tracks SDG 6 using indicators such as:

  • Percentage of the population with safe drinking water access.
  • Availability of sanitation and hygiene services.
  • Water quality and pollution levels.
  • Efficiency of water use in agriculture and industry.

10. Will the world achieve SDG 6 by 2030?

While progress is being made, water scarcity, pollution, and infrastructure gaps remain major hurdles. Achieving SDG 6 requires strong policy commitments, technological innovation, and global cooperation.

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