Final answer:
Approximately 2.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, underscoring the global challenge of ensuring adequate freshwater availability for all amid increasing demand and environmental changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the United Nations and various water resource-focused organizations, approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water. This issue of water scarcity affects both the quantity and quality of water available to individuals, leading to significant health and social issues. The Water Resources Group has projected that the demand for water will exceed supply by 40% by 2030, based on current trends.
As populations grow and climate change impacts water sources, the challenge of providing adequate freshwater to all becomes increasingly pressing. Efforts by international organizations, governments, and local communities are ongoing to improve water access and sustainability practices.