An estimated 3 billion people lack consistent household access to clean and safe piped water Because it affects rain patterns, climate change exacerbates water issues. IFC believes that the private sector has a strong role in addressing the problem but recognizes that a number of challenges and barriers have prevented investors, financial institutions, and private companies from taking advantage of the untapped opportunities of the safe-water sector in emerging markets. Improving access to safe water in low-income countries through creative mobilization of private sector resources is central to IFC’s strategy to help meet the Millennium Development Goal for safe water. Related reports and websites: Charting Our Water Future Safe Water for All: Harnessing the Private Sector to Reach the Underserved > Learn more about IFC Water & Gas