Political Quotes

“The week will be marked by events taking place at university campuses, community centers and civic institutions throughout the State to teach the residents of Illinois about the effects of a crowded planet. In many hot spots around the world, there is simply a shortage of water. Some analysts predict that a major war over water is possible sometime in the future. Experts often cite the Middle East as an area where many water disputes could derail peace efforts or lead to another war. But there are critical water disputes the world over, and, as population increases, and potable water becomes yet more scarce, violent disputes over water become increasingly likely. It is estimated that water shortages plague 20 percent of the world's population in at least 30 countries, and, it is estimated by 2025, as much as 30 percent of the world's population in 50 countries will face water shortages. Even in places where there is enough water, it often is not clean enough to drink. An estimated 1.2 billion around the world lack an adequate, safe water supply, and 2.3 billion lack adequate sanitation. It is estimated that as many as 5 to 7 million people die every year from water-related diseases, including 2.2 million children under the age of 5. Former Senator--and my friend and mentor--Paul Simon, has been a leader in the Senate and beyond in highlighting the need for better, cheaper ways to desalinate salt water.”