The P&G Children’s Safe Drinking Water Program has been recognized as one of the world’s most impactful developments, and the company was presented with the 2012 Economist Social Innovation Award.

“As a Company, we are both honored by the recognition and inspired by our employees and global partners who have worked to deliver more than 5 billion liters of clean drinking water to families in developing countries, helping save nearly 30,000 lives,” said Bob McDonald, P&G CEO, president and chairman of the board.

The Children’s Safe Drinking Water Program works with partners in more than 65 countries to share its P&G Purifier of Water packets, which contain a patented powdered technology that transforms dirty and contaminated water into clean, drinkable water.

The award was presented during The Economist’s 11th Annual Innovation Award gala at the NAFTA Center in London.