Water Scarcity: An Issue That Connects Us All

By Sukhpal

One night in San Gregorio, rural Guatemala, our delegation was told at dinner that due to water scarcity, dishes would not be washed tonight. Upon hearing this, I made the connection to what I had seen earlier that day at my host’s house. I had noticed in the morning, while brushing my teeth that the middle sink, which is usually filled with water, had depleted to a dangerously low level…

In rural Guatemala, some households have 3 sinks. The first sink on the left is for washing clothes, fruits, fish and so on. The middle sink is always filled with water that I would collect using a small plastic bowl to then pour over my hands, clothes and food. The last sink on the right, was dedicated for brushing teeth.

Brief History on Water Scarcity in Guatemala

Guatemala is located in Central America and is facing a water crisis. Historically, 44% households in rural Guatemala lack access to a safe water supply. With this lack of access, many Guatemalans rely on contaminated water. This leads to poor hygiene, health and an abundance of water-related illnesses, such as cholera. In recent years, Guatemala has also faced the effects of climate change, mainly droughts, thus, further exacerbating the issue and affecting crop growth leading to food shortages in rural areas.

It is not just rural areas that are affected. One night in Guatemala City, I noticed the tap water colour was a tinge of yellow. Upon my return to Canada, I researched further to learn that nearly all groundwater sources are polluted, which affects the health of those who rely on these tap water sources. Therefore, though the issue of water scarcity and access to clean water affects the majority of rural Guatemalans, it seems those in the city cannot escape this crisis.

Indigenous Struggle for Clean Water in Canada

Water scarcity is an issue that globally connects us all. The Indigenous peoples in Canada face a similar crisis. Canada has historically issued water advisories, often on rural reserves. There is a long-standing issue regarding the lack of access to a safe water supply. The water is often contaminated, scarce or at risk due to faulty treatment systems. According to the Government of Canada, as of October 9, 2024, there are 32 long-term drinking advisories in 30 communities. In Canada, the Indigenous peoples disproportionately face a higher number of water advisories than non-Indigenous people.

Future of Water Conservation

In Canada, there are on-going efforts to raise awareness surrounding water. The Public Service Alliance of Canada launched a campaign in 2022 called Still Thirsty for Justice advocating and bringing awareness to Canada’s water crisis, particularly highlighting the effects on Indigenous peoples. In Ontario, an Indigenous-led Great Lakes Water Walk took place in September. The purpose of this water walk was to bring recognition to the value of water. In Alberta, the province is managing a water shortage supply by implementing water sharing agreements and regulating water consumption. Therefore, Canada’s water crisis is present from coast to coast.

In Guatemala, there is a long-term sustainability project offering Ecofiltro filters to interested households in rural Guatemala. I saw this very project in my host’s house and was told I could collect water from this filter to drink only. The Government of Guatemala is taking steps to update its National Water and Sanitation Policy. 

Overall, water is a necessity of life that often seems like it is in the hands of others to manage or an issue that is far away from the average Canadian household. However, it is not and one can take a simple step towards alleviating water scarcity for everyone by recognizing its value and efficiently managing day-to-day consumption.

Sukhpal is a member of CEIU Local 30856.