By Akanni Dorcas

Water is essential for life, yet many people do not have access to the cleanest drinking water in many countries.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in four people worldwide faces this challenge.

However, some countries stand out for their clean and safe water. This is due to their natural resources, good infrastructure, and strict environmental rules.

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Even in these countries, water faces risks from pollution, climate change, and other environmental problems.

Here are five countries with the cleanest water in the world.

Finland

Finland has some of the cleanest water on Earth. The country has 168,000 lakes, and 85% of them are in excellent condition. Most of the water comes from these lakes, especially Lake Päijänne, which supplies water to nearly one million people.

Years ago, Finland’s water was polluted by industrial activities. Today, strict environmental rules and monitoring have improved its quality. The water needs only light processing, like UV treatment, before it reaches homes. Authorities work hard to keep the water clean and safe despite challenges like agricultural runoff.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands uses natural and chemical-free methods to purify water. Two-thirds of its water comes from groundwater, while the rest comes from rivers and sand dunes. Sand acts as a natural filter in a process called sedimentation.

Before the water reaches taps, it is purified further using carbon filtration, ozone, and UV light. This ensures clean, chlorine-free drinking water. By protecting water sources and maintaining distribution systems, the Netherlands provides some of the best water in the world.

Iceland

Iceland’s water is so clean that 97% of its people believe it’s the best in the world. Most of the water comes from underground aquifers and fresh springs. This water is naturally free of chemicals like chlorine and calcium.

A small portion of Iceland’s water goes through UV treatment to ensure safety. Glacial rivers, lakes, and geothermal sources also supply water to the country. Iceland’s water meets over 99% of quality standards, making it safe and refreshing.

Norway

Norway is famous for its glaciers and 455,000 lakes, which provide some of the cleanest water on Earth. About 90% of Norwegians get their water from lakes, rivers, and streams. The government regularly tests and monitors this water to keep it safe.

Although Norway’s water has low levels of pollutants, it still goes through disinfection to remove any contaminants. Nearly 99% of Norwegians have access to clean and safe drinking water, making it one of the best in the world.

Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its high-quality water, often better than bottled water. About 80% of its water comes from underground aquifers, which are naturally filtered by gravel and stone. Alpine springs and lakes provide the rest.

Swiss authorities use advanced purification techniques like ozonation and carbon filtration for water that needs treatment. They also enforce strict environmental laws, such as banning harmful chemicals in detergents, to protect water sources. Many Swiss communities have managed their water systems for over a century, ensuring clean and reliable supplies.

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