Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all

Goal 6 calls for ensuring universal access to: - safe and affordable drinking water - sanitation and hygiene It also aims to: - end defecation in the open - improve water quality and water use efficiency - encourage sustainable abstractions and supply of freshwater

Targets and indicators


Target 6.1

By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all

Target 6.2

By 2030, achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations

Target 6.3

By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally

Indicator 6.3.1

Indicator 6.3.2


Target 6.4

By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity and substantially reduce the number of people suffering from water scarcity

Indicator 6.4.1

Change in water-use efficiency over time
  • Indicator status No data available

Target 6.5

By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate

Indicator 6.5.1


Target 6.6

By 2020, protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes

Indicator 6.6.1


Target 6.a

By 2030, expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programmes, including water harvesting, desalination, water efficiency, wastewater treatment, recycling and reuse technologies

Target 6.b

Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management

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