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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Forbes or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: A study by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health highlights the unequal impact of poor-quality water on different genders, with women and girls bearing a disproportionate burden due to societal roles and responsibilities in water collection and management
🔭 The context: Women are more frequently in contact with unsafe water, leading to a higher risk of waterborne diseases and mental health issues due to the stress and trauma associated with water scarcity and illness in families
• This impact is exacerbated in developing countries where women are primarily responsible for water-related tasks
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The gendered impact of unsafe water underscores the need for gender-sensitive interventions and reforms in global water management
• Addressing these disparities is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring equitable access to clean water and sanitation for all genders
⏭️ What's next: Governments and international organizations are called to implement inclusive and tailored strategies that consider the unique needs and challenges of different genders in water safety and management
• Participatory governance and community involvement are essential in creating equitable solutions
💬 One quote: “Living with the uncertainty and fear of consuming contaminated water can lead to increased anxiety and stress levels for women,” says Grace Oluwasanya, senior researcher at UNU-INWEH.
📈 One stat: Research suggests girls are twice as likely as boys to bear the responsibility of fetching water for their households worldwide, significantly impacting their access to education and opportunities.
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