The Clean Water Here Global Photography Exhibit, in partnership with the University of Waterloo’s Water Institute, opened at THEMUSEUM on Saturday, May 5, 2018 and features 13 photographs from around the world that document what the lack of safe drinking water means knowing the water cycle in its entirety includes all uses and users.
"Queuing for Water" by Joe B N Leung. Women wait in long lines for water in a village near the Changu Narayan Temple, north of Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley.
The exhibit debuted at the United Nations headquarters in New York City on UN World Water Day, March 22, 2018 in support of the Water Action Decade and promoted the idea that access to safe drinking water and sanitation are human rights – central to all people everywhere.
“Lack of access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation is one of the greatest human health threats facing the world’s most vulnerable,” said Professor Roy Brouwer, Executive Director of the University of Waterloo’s Water Institute. “Human health and well-being is a fundamental research theme at the Water Institute, and this photography exhibit is a unique way to highlight this global water challenge to the public.”
By 2050, the world’s population will have grown by 2 billion people and demand for water will increase up to 30 per cent. This exhibit features powerful images that illustrate the question: How are we going to balance the competing demands on water resources while meeting our obligations to fulfill every person’s right to water and sanitation?
“Safe drinking water is one of the most important global challenges of the 21st century.” said Lani Dolifka, the creator of Clean Water Here. “This exhibit will give the public a better understanding of the issue – especially as it relates to underserved communities around the world. Safe drinking water is critical to every woman, man, and child.”
"Water Reserve" by Antonio Grambone. A young girl carries water from Lake Malawi to her home miles away.
The Water Action Decade aims to put greater focus on the sustainable development and integrated management of water resources including cooperation and partnership at all levels to achieve agreed upon water-related goals and targets, including those contained in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Clean Water Here’s mission is to improve the world’s access to sustainable safe drinking water by raising awareness, supporting research & education, and advocating for underserved communities in the US and abroad. Research indicates risks associated with contaminants, infrastructure, and universal and equitable access. For more information visit www.cleanwaterhere.org