Water pollution is a major global problem that causes over 14,000 deaths per day according to some estimates. It is primarily caused by human activities through both point sources like factories and sewage systems, and nonpoint sources that can't be traced to a single origin. Developing countries face acute water pollution that deprives many citizens of access to safe drinking water and claims hundreds of lives daily, while developed countries continue working to address persistent pollution problems through legislation, regulation of industry, and other solutions.