In a world where every passing moment brings leaps in digital innovation, creating opportunities to improve life for billions, and promising a world that's interconnected, I find a small joy in kickstarting a casual conversation with, "Oh, I work in toilets." I elicit wide eyes when sharing the stark contradiction that while 95% of the world's population is covered by wireless broadband connections, only 54% of people have access to safe sanitation.
The impact of inadequate sanitation extends far beyond the indignity suffered by individuals. It affects health, educational outcomes, and workplace productivity. Each year, an estimated 1.4 million people lose their lives to diseases directly attributable to inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene.
A lack of basic sanitation and hygiene is not just a cause, but a symptom of broader inequality and it is not just restricted to certain countries. Some people are surprised to learn that while the U.S. has one of the largest economies, around 1 million people still lack even the most basic sanitation systems.
The economic implications of this global crisis are profound. Some nations lose up to 5% of GDP due to sanitation-related productivity losses such as missed work days and reduced educational attainment.
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