Held in Stockholm, the virtual conference gathered scientists, business leaders, policy makers and civil society representatives. In its article, The Lancet recalls that a decade ago, the UN General Assembly had adopted Resolution 64/292, which recognizes that all humans have the right to acceptable, accessible, safe and sufficient water.

Since then, it seems that little progress has been made. In fact, a study covering 88 low- and middle-income countries reveals a rather grim picture, namely on the number of diarrhoeal deaths in children under 5 years old that could be attributed to the lack of safe water facilities. The COVID-19’s very detrimental impacts have only added to those deplorable situations.

Chrysotile is among the affordable solutions accessible to emerging countries who want to build much needed water and sanitation infrastructures – as well as rooftops – to give their populations decent living and sanitary conditions. Chrysotile is a natural fibre whose exceptional qualities and efficiency have been widely recognized. It has been demonstrated that it can be used in a safe and responsible way, both in terms of workers’ health and the environment.

International Chrysotile Association