The global mobilization behind the MDGs has been a remarkable success that has changed the world's approach to development for the better. Yet, with just over 1,000 days remaining before the 2015 deadline for achieving the MDGs, we are not even close to reaching the goal on proper sanitation.

That is why I am launching a call to action on sanitation on behalf of the UN secretary-general, as we mark the beginning of the International Year on Water Cooperation.

There are three things we can do to speed up progress on sanitation. First, we should speed up the elimination of open defecation country by country, community by community, family by family. We need to talk about the problem, not turn our heads away from a subject many find uncomfortable.

Second, we need to strengthen cooperation. The water and sanitation challenge is everybody's business. We need everyone to play their part. National governments need to lead by making commitments. Local governments can work with communities to help them to help themselves. The private sector can invest in the health of their employees and the environment, and civil society organizations can monitor progress and advocate for solutions.

Third, we should scale up the projects that work. Simple, affordable actions have already proved their worth. Between 1990 and 2010, about 1.8 billion people gained access to sanitation - a significant achievement. Many countries have tackled this problem within a generation.

Doing nothing is not an option. The social, economic and environmental cost is simply too high. Let us commit now to ending open defecation and providing adequate sanitation and safe water for all, so women and girls can live with dignity, so our children can survive and communities thrive.

Keo in Cambodia reports that all her family members are now using the latrine. They are drinking safe water. "I ask all the families in my village to start building latrines for their use. This will help our village to end open defecation and bring good health for everyone, especially our children."

Keo has set an example. Let us follow one community at a time. Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something.

The author is deputy secretary-general of the United Nations.

(China Daily 03/22/2013 page8)