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11 Facts About Water Around the World

Water covers nearly 70 percent of the Earth’s surface.
The Nile River is the longest river in the world at 4132 miles long.
Every year, 3.4 million people die because they lack clean water, sanitation, and hygienic necessities. 99 percent of these deaths occur in the developing world.
780 million people lack access to an improved water source — approximately 1 in 9 people.
One 5-minute shower uses more water than one person in the slum of a developing country uses for a whole day.
Today, a larger number of people own a mobile phone than those who have access to a toilet.
People suffering from water-related illnesses fill half of the world's hospital beds.
10 percent of the global disease burden could be reduced with improved water supply. Not only would it increase hydration, but sanitation and hygiene as well.
Just 33 percent of what the world spends on bottled water every year would pay to provide clean water for the 780 million without it.
Lack of access to clean water and sanitation kills children at a rate of 200 an hour.
Safe drinking water in undeveloped areas allows children — especially young girls — the opportunity to go back to school and in turn, fosters economic development.