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Clean Water for Vulnerable Communities

Clean water pouring into cupped hands

A recent report by UNESCO for UN-Water, published in March 2024, reveals that 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water in the world, while 3.5 billion lack safely managed sanitation. With these figures, the UN’s goal of universal access by 2030 appears increasingly out of reach, raising concerns that these disparities could continue to worsen over time.

  • 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water
  • 3.5 billion lack safely managed sanitation
  • 98% of the population in Bangladesh has water access
  • Only 59% of that water is safe to drink

The Green Fund Initiative (GFI) is currently implementing projects in Bangladesh to improve access to safe drinking water. The country faces major water quality issues, with rural communities relying on well water that often contains high levels of arsenic, salinity, and heavy metals. Although 98% of the population has water access, only 59% of that water is safe to drink, leaving millions at risk. Studies by the Bangladesh Water Development Board highlight elevated arsenic levels, particularly in aquifers near floodplains. Climate change and rising sea levels are intensifying this crisis, driving up both salinity and arsenic in coastal regions. Additionally, groundwater depletion from heavy agricultural and industrial water use, combined with reduced rainfall and extreme weather patterns, further strains water resources.

GFI’s approach centers on strengthening climate resilience in vulnerable communities by ensuring safe drinking water access, with a strong emphasis on involving local communities in project planning and implementation.

Illustration of a Water ATM with the Corteva Agriscience, GlobalGiving and Green Fund Initiative logos

Objectives & Approach

Provide Safe Drinking Water

Install Reverse Osmosis (RO)-based Water ATMs, Rainwater Harvesting System, Deep Tubewells in strategic locations, ensuring clean water access for vulnerable people daily.

Promote Community Health

Conduct awareness campaigns to reduce waterborne diseases and educate on hygiene practices.

Reduce Water Collection Burden

Reduce travel distance and time for fetching water.

Ensure Sustainability

Establish community-led management committees and provide training for local ownership and maintenance.

Expected Impact

The project will improve public health by reducing waterborne diseases, support economic growth by reducing healthcare costs, and promote environmental sustainability through improved water management practices. The project represents a critical step in providing reliable, safe drinking water and enhancing resilience in climate-vulnerable communities.

Current Status

  • 1 Water ATM with Reverse Osmosis
  • 10 tube wells
  • 14 deep tube wells
  • 1,500 primary school children in handwashing education
  • 10 schools
  • 450 women benefiting from sanitation and toilet-use training

Water Access: Installed 1 Water ATM with Reverse Osmosis, 10 tube wells, and 14 deep tube wells to improve reliable access to safe drinking water for climate-affected families.

Hygiene Education: Conducted handwashing education for approximately 1,500 primary school children across 10 schools and provided sanitation and toilet-use training to stakeholders, benefiting approximately 450 women.

A woman using a Water ATM while other women wait with water containers

Water ATM System with Reverse Osmosis (RO)

The Green Fund Initiative has partnered with GlobalGiving Foundation and Corteva to launch the Water ATM Project in Bangladesh, aimed at delivering sustainable, clean drinking water to vulnerable communities. Starting October 1, 2024, and concluding by March 31, 2025, this project is designed to enhance the quality of life for water-insecure populations. The collaboration underscores a commitment to sustainable development, addressing both immediate water needs and ensuring long-term access to safe water

Explore More Videos of Our Water Projects

A young boy catching water from a tap in his cupped hands

Help Us Bring Clean Water to Vulnerable Communities in Bangladesh

Millions of people in Bangladesh face daily struggles accessing safe drinking water, with groundwater sources often contaminated by arsenic, salinity, and heavy metals. Climate change and rising sea levels intensify this crisis, leaving millions vulnerable to waterborne illnesses and other health risks. The Green Fund Initiative’s “Water ATM Project” provides sustainable, accessible, and clean drinking water to those most in need.