Lack of clean water threatens the Pacific Islands

The fight against coronavirus has been a struggle for the Pacific Islands, in particular Papua New Guinea, who have seen cases rapidly rising due to people lacking access to clean water and therefore being unable

to wash their hands properly. Across the Pacific Islands, only 55% have access to basic drinking water, making it the lowest in the world. It almost seems ironic, given that the Pacific Islands are located across the Pacific, yet lack clean water. Nevertheless, this presents an issue across the Pacific, which is at risk of developing further with climate change if no immediate measures are taken. Climate change poses a future risk as it will affect the severity of droughts which affect for example Kiribati, whilst also impacting rainfall patterns, from which Papua New Guinea is dependent on for rainwater catchments. Sustainable water management is vital to ensure water needs are met, even with a growing population, as well as ensuring communities have access to a reliable source of clean water to prevent waterborne diseases and minimize the risk of COVID-19.