The adoption of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), at the 2015 United Nations Development Summit, lays out a compelling framework for collective action by government, the private sector, and civil society to address social and environmental issues that inhibit economic development and shared prosperity. SDG 6 is dedicated exclusively to ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

This paper lays out opportunities for the business community to make positive contributions to achieving SDG 6. The paper also describes the potential risks of these engagements. It presents a call to action for all sectors to play a proactive role in helping to achieve SDG 6. The Pacific Institute is co-secretariat of the United Nations Global Compact’s CEO Water Mandate, which mobilizes business leaders to advance water stewardship, sanitation, and the Sustainable Development Goals.