AN OVERVIEW OF TECHNOLOGY DRIVEN SOLUTIONS TO THE WATER CRISIS IN DEVELOPING NATIONS

Developing countries across the world are facing a water crisis due to the growth in population and rapid rates of urbanization. Research suggests that one in nine people in the world do not have access to clean water close to home, and two-thirds of the world’s population live in areas of physical water scarcity, where for at least part of the year demand for water exceeds its supply. This has led to public health crises, lower rates of economic development and hampered productivity of individuals. This paper has determined that the worst impact of the water crisis is faced by economically backward sections of developing countries. Technological advancements in the past few decades have paved the way for the development of localized water purification and conservation systems, that are not only cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable. It has been found that the development of these systems has been pioneered by the combined efforts of research groups in educational institutions and global non-profits. This paper has explored the potential of these technologically driven solutions to effect change in developing countries. It has been determined that there is a need for governments in developing countries to invest in and implement decentralized technology-enabled systems of water management to improve the supply of clean and fresh water- a necessity for sustenance and development of individuals and communities.