Tapping clean water for the world

About 1.2 billion people around the globe lack access to clean water. The issue is one of critical importance to Rotarians, who are working to find solutions.

The Water and Sanitation Rotarian Action Group will hold its first water summit on 12 June in Los Angeles, just before the 2008 RI Convention.

The daylong event will feature panel discussions on creating and funding sustainable water projects. Breakout sessions will provide a chance for participants to talk about specific regional issues in detail, and a networking lunch will let Rotarians do what they do best: Find the right person for each job.

“We’re just getting people together who are passionate about water so they can share ideas and information,” says Carolyn Crowley-Meub, chair of the summit and a member of the Rotary Club of Rutland South, Vt., USA.

“Providing clean water is a means to an end,” she adds. “The goal is to have healthier children so they can go to school. If they’re at school, their mothers can work. The health of the whole community is improved.”

Sanitation measures can lower health care costs, cut school and work absences, and reduce the risk of violence against women, many of whom are now forced to travel long distances to reach clean water sources.

Sustainability is the key to success. “If people don’t do water projects well, it’s money and effort that is not well spent,” Crowley-Meub says. “Sustainable water projects begin and end in the community. We need to involve the local community, find out its needs and interests, follow up, and provide education. Local people have to have ownership in the project.”