Closing the knowledge gap: Understanding the world’s water challenges

Water is a precious resource that sustains life and plays a vital role in our daily existence. However, a recent study conducted by Toluna commissioned by Culligan reveals a concerning trend—a growing knowledge gap among consumers when it comes to understanding water-related issues. On World Water Day 2024, we shed light on these findings to emphasize the importance of increasing awareness about the challenges we face in preserving and protecting our water resources.

The knowledge gap

The research conducted in February 2024 highlights a general "lack of knowledge" about the world of water across North America, Australia and Europe. Compared to the previous year, this knowledge gap appears to be widening. Several key areas were identified where awareness is particularly low:

•    Reverse Osmosis: Only 49% of respondents in North America were familiar with this water purification process, 59% in Australia, and 59% Europe.

•    PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances): Just 44% of participants in North America recognized the potential risks associated with PFAS in water, 52% in Australia, and 53% in Europe.

•    Soft water: Merely 42% of respondents in North America understood the concept and implications of soft water, 47% in Europe, and 52% in Australia.

•    Microplastics: Shockingly, only 34% of people surveyed in Australia were aware of the presence and impact of microplastics in bottled water, 36% in Europe, and 37% in North America.

These findings raise concerns about the overall understanding of water-related challenges and the potential health risks associated with them.

Declining awareness

Despite the importance of hydration, the study reveals a decline in awareness of everyday water issues across North America, Australia and Europe. Alarmingly, 1 in 5 respondents in Europe and North America believe that plastic bottles are not harmful to the environment because they can be recycled. This perception has grown compared to the previous year. 

Environmental impact and health concerns

The research also highlights growing concerns about the impact of pollution on drinking water. 67% of respondents in North America expressed worry about the increasing levels of pollution in their drinking water. This reflects a genuine apprehension among North American citizens regarding the potential health risks associated with water pollution.

Taking action

      As a leading company in the water treatment industry, Filter Pro has been committed to popularising water purification knowledge and raising public awareness of water resource issues. The company actively advocates environmental protection behaviours such as water conservation, emission reduction and reduction in the use of disposable plastic products, and encourages people to participate in water protection through various activities and publicity.

      In addition, Filter Pro will continue to be committed to product development and innovation as well as advocate environmental protection behaviours and other aspects of work, and constantly improve its own technical strength and service level, to provide users with more high-quality and efficient water treatment solutions.