1 out of every 3 children is facing severe water scarcity. - UNICEF
As the COP 28 Climate Change Summit approaches on November 30, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has released a report highlighting the threat of water vulnerability to children's development as a consequence of climate change (The Climate Changed Child). Unlike adults, children are more vulnerable and sensitive to environmental factors that impact their growth and development. According to Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, "the consequences of climate change are extremely dire for children".
In 2022, the impact of water scarcity has been felt by hundreds of millions of children worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and Southern Asia, and Eastern and Southeastern Asia. In this context, the projections estimate the following impacts:
953 million children were exposed to high or extremely high water stress: This refers to the ratio of total water demand to available renewable surface and groundwater supplies, including domestic, industrial, irrigation, and livestock uses. The report provides insights into countries and children exposed to high or extremely high baseline water stress in 2022, with projections for 2030, 2050, and 2080.
739 million children were exposed to high or extremely high water scarcity: In 54 countries, over a quarter of children faced high or extremely high water scarcity.
436 million children live in areas of high or extremely high water vulnerability:
The extreme water vulnerability index combines data on physical water scarcity (water stress, interannual variability, seasonal variability, groundwater table decline, and drought), drinking water service levels, and population density.
In such circumstances, investments in safe drinking water and sanitation services serve as a crucial frontline defense to shield children from the impacts of climate change. The report also highlights the increasing water stress – the ratio of water demand to available renewable supplies. By 2050, an estimated 35 million children will be exposed to high or extremely high levels of water stress, with the Middle East and North Africa, and South Asia facing the most significant shifts.
Looking beyond COP28, UNICEF urges global leaders to take action to safeguard the lives, health, and well-being of children. This includes adapting essential social services, empowering every child to become an advocate for the environment, and fulfilling international sustainability and climate change agreements, including the rapid reduction of emissions."
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