Maintaining a supply of potable water is vital for the health and well-being of people. Around the world, 89% of people have access to an improved water source. Potable water is harvested from several sources, including groundwater sources, precipitation, rivers, glaciers, and desalinated seawater. It is vital to avoid polluting our water sources. Contaminated water can spread diseases and poison consumers. In 2007, over 25% of the length of China's seven largest rivers were so contaminated that water harmed the skin. In South Asia, providing access to clean water reduced episodes of diarrhea by 39%. Globally, it is estimated that 60 Million people have been the victim of fluoride poisoning, caused by contaminated groundwater.
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