The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals provide a framework to turn global ambitions into local action. Our faculty, students and staff are addressing clean water, sanitation and hygiene as well as management strategies to help ensure everyone has access to Clean Water and Sanitation.
FIU ranks No. 1 in the United States for positive impact on Clean Water and Sanitation by the Times Higher Education 2026 Impact Rankings.
The university is a neutral place where all minds can come together and present information without weighing in on a particular interest. FIU also brings the science and the opportunities to be involved in real-life laboratories.Dr. Maria C. Donoso, Director of FIU International Water Programs and Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Water Security
As the State of Florida’s University of Distinction in Environmental Resilience, FIU is helping to ensure Clean Water and Sanitation all across the world. Explore our efforts In the World, For the Community and On Campus.
6.1 Ensuring access to drinking water
FIU has delivered clean water solutions to places throughout the world including Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the Caucasus through initiatives funded by USAID. Our International Water Programs provide water management services to people and ecosystems through infrastructure improvements, education, integrated water management policies and research. Find out more on FIU's efforts to ensure access to drinking water.
6.2 Improving sanitation and hygiene
FIU has delivered sanitation and hygiene solutions to countries throughout the world including Ghana, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burkina Faso and Mozambique through initiatives supported by USAID. These efforts included a particular focus on gender equality and the responsibilities women in developing countries often shoulder, including promoting healthy hygiene practices within their families. Find out more on FIU's efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene.
6.3 Protecting water quality
FIU scientists, through research and action, are preventing and reducing water pollution of all kinds including nutrient, plastics and microplastics, PFAS forever chemicals, oil and industrial contaminants, pharmaceuticals, and other debris. With a campus on Biscayne Bay and one on the edge of the Florida Everglades, protecting and preserving water quality is a way of life at FIU. Find out more on FIU's effort to protect water quality.
6.4 Improving water security
The UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Water Security in FIU’s Institute of Environment is charged with bringing together research and education to address regional, national and global water security issues, through innovative interdisciplinary research and partnerships for sustainability. Find out more on FIU's efforts to improve water security.
6.5 Implement integrated water resources management
FIU has delivered clean water, sanitation and hygiene solutions to countries throughout the world for more than a decade. FIU has focused on low-cost solutions, community engagement and government collaborations to help improve water management practices along with healthier and more sustainable communities. Find out more on FIU's efforts to implement integrated water resources management.
6.6 Protect and restore ecosystems
In collaboration with local and international partners, FIU research has led to expanded protections for endangered species and adaptive management of freshwater, coastal and marine resources. Find out more on FIU's efforts to protect and restore ecosystems.
6.a-b Supporting communities
FIU is more than a top research institution. Our researchers are committed to putting their work into action. The International Water Programs in the Institute of Environment are focused on improving the lives of people in developing countries, empowering communities and protecting water resources for all. Find out more on FIU's efforts to supporting communities.
FIU offers degrees in Environmental Sciences focused on protecting and preserving vital natural resources as well as Civil and Environmental Engineering focused on infrastructure and quality of life. The university also offers degrees in global sustainable tourism, politics and international relations, public administration and other related fields. Faculty and students are enhancing our understanding and stewardship of Clean Water and Sanitation. Explore our academic offerings
Florida International University offers a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree options, including top-ranked online options. Explore the possibilities
Professional Science Master's in Environmental Policy and Management
This degree provides advanced training in environmental policy to navigate economic, governance, social, and environmental issues including water resources management.
JD/MS in Environmental Studies
The Juris Doctor/Master of Science in Environmental Studies Joint Degree Pathway offers students the opportunity to earn an M.S. in Environmental Studies and law degree at an accelerated pace.
Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Pathway in Environmental Engineering
This degree program focuses on engineering solutions for issues in the areas of ecology, climate change, natural disasters, hazardous wastes and water resources.
Learn more about the accelerated program
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FIU Institute of Environment partners with Football for Peace on sustainability
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