Access to clean water and safe sanitation is fundamental to human health, environmental sustainability and economic development.
Sustainable Development Goal 6 calls for the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, recognising that water underpins many of the world's most pressing challenges, from public health and food security to climate resilience, biodiversity protection and sustainable livelihoods.
Globally, billions of people still lack access to safely managed drinking water and sanitation services, while increasing pressures from population growth, pollution and climate change continue to threaten water resources and ecosystems.
At ARU, we contribute to the achievement of SDG 6 through research, education, operational practices and community partnerships that support the sustainable use, management and protection of water resources. Our researchers work with communities, policymakers and international partners to address challenges relating to water security, climate resilience, environmental sustainability and ecosystem health. Through teaching and learning, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex environmental challenges, while our operational activities seek to promote the responsible management of water resources across our campuses and communities.
As a university with a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, we recognise that access to clean water and healthy aquatic ecosystems is essential for both people and planet. By supporting innovation, evidence-based decision-making and collaborative action, we are helping to advance solutions that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future in line with the ambitions of Sustainable Development Goal 6.
Our researchers work across a number of different aspects of water resource governance, from water quality and climate resilience, to wastewater systems and drainage infrastructure.
We encourage our students to explore challenges around water management through interdisciplinary learning experiences – and develop the knowledge and skills to address complex environmental issues.
The East of England, where our campuses are located, is one of the driest regions of the UK. We're committed to reducing water consumption and continually improving water efficiency.
Our research and outreach activities have directly contributed to advancing water security at local, regional and national level. Meanwhile our citizen science and collaborative approach helps us to promote water conservation and sustainable management.
Last updated: October 2026
To request additions, corrections or changes to the information in these pages, please contact: Dr Zareen Bharucha: [email protected]. Please use the subject line ‘ARU SDG’.