THEME OF THE FORTNIGHT
WATER AND SANITATION
REPORTS
WASH Climate Resilient Development
Authors: Global Water Partnership (GWP) and UNICEF
Publication Details: GWP and UNICEF, 2014, updated 2017
The Strategic Framework for WASH Climate-Resilient Development, co-developed by the Global Water Partnership (GWP) and UNICEF, presents a comprehensive approach in integrating water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) into climate-resilient development strategies. Recognizing the critical impacts of climate change on water resources and WASH services, the framework aims to safeguard vulnerable communities and ensure sustainable access to WASH in the face of increasing climate variability. It provides actionable guidance for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to strengthen resilience through cross-sectoral collaboration, capacity building, and innovative financing mechanisms. By aligning WASH initiatives with climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, the framework seeks to promote equitable, sustainable development and enhance the resilience of WASH systems globally, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate action targets.
Towards Climate-Resilient Sanitation Futures
Authors: Climate Sanitation for Urban Resilience Taskforce of the NFSSM Alliance
Publication Details: NFSSM Alliance, 2024
This report examines the challenges posed by climate change to global sanitation systems and proposes nature-based solutions (NBS) as a pathway to climate-resilient sanitation futures. Traditional sanitation infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, which can disrupt services and exacerbate public health risks. The document highlights the potential of nature-based approaches, such as constructed wetlands, green infrastructure, and ecosystem-based adaptations, to build resilience, reduce environmental impact, and provide additional benefits like biodiversity conservation and improved water management. Through case studies and policy recommendations, the report advocates for the adoption of climate-resilient sanitation practices, emphasizing the need for collaboration among governments, communities, and stakeholders to ensure equitable and sustainable sanitation solutions in the face of a changing climate.
Read More: https://www.nfssmalliance.org/reports/download/towards-climate-resilient-sanitation-futures
Assessing Risks to India’s Drinking Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Systems from Extreme Climate Events
Authors: CEEW and UNICEF
Publication Details: Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), 2024
This report presents a detailed climate risk assessment for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems in India, highlighting the growing threats posed by climate change. It identifies key vulnerabilities in WASH infrastructure and services, such as increased frequency of extreme weather events, water scarcity, and contamination risks, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The assessment emphasizes the need for climate-resilient WASH strategies, including improved infrastructure design, sustainable water management practices, and community-based adaptation measures. By providing actionable recommendations and case studies, the report underscores the importance of integrating climate resilience into WASH policies and programs to ensure safe and sustainable access to water and sanitation for all, particularly in the face of a changing climate.
Reuse of Treated Wastewater in India Market Potential and Recommendations for Strengthening Governance
Authors: Nitin Bassi, Saiba Gupta, and Kartikey Chaturvedi
Publication Details: Council for Energy, Environment, and Water, March 2023
The Central Water Commission (CWC) estimates basin-wise water availability (CWC 2021), 11 out of the 15 major river basins in India will experience water stress by 2025, with annual per capita renewable water availability below 1,700 cubic meters. Hence, it is essential to explore alternative sources of water to address the demand-supply gap. One of these alternative sources is treated wastewater. In 2021, approximately 11,622 million cubic meters (MCM) was the estimated amount of treated wastewater available for reuse. Based on projected sewage generation and treatment capacities in the future, this will become 15,288 MCM by 2025 and 35,178 MCM by 2050. This report makes a thorough assessment of the existing wastewater reuse in India and provides recommendations to strengthen the existing governance on the reuse of treated wastewater in India. These include mainstreaming wastewater reuse within the larger water management strategy of cities; defining wastewater reuse standards; setting robust institutional mechanisms; improving financial viability; leveraging technological developments; and investing in public outreach.
https://www.ceew.in/sites/default/files/scaling-wastewater-reuse-treatment-and-management-india.pdf
Capacity Development for Water: Step-By-Step Methodology: From Individual to Sector Wide Capacity Development
Authors: Stockholm International Water Institute
Publication Details: Stockholm International Water Institute, 2024
The report proposes a five-step methodology for creating an impactful capacity-building response. The first step is about the definition of the entry point, where key stakeholders and the scope are outlined based on the capacity development (CD) framework. CD needs and demands are assessed, and motivation to change from the potential target group of the intervention is confirmed. Here, the landscape for CD programs is also mapped, identifying other active CD programs, donors and service providers in the field (technical schools, universities, consultancies, among others). The second step develops the approach for a CDNA. It consists of processes that guide the practitioner on a self-assessment of individual, organisational and/or sectoral capacities to perform certain functions. This is done by mapping the main actors, functions and processes; identifying the target group´s specific roles in the selected processes; developing data gathering tools; supporting the target group identification of their desired performance; and extracting the CD areas of their identified desired performance. The third step guides how to create CD plans (strategic or operational) based on the information and commitment gathered in steps one and two. The fourth step dives into the implementation process, and finally, the fifth step indicates some parameters for monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the action plan.
https://siwi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/stepbystep-methodology_wash_final.pdf
RESEARCH PAPERS
Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Water and Sanitation Sectors in India
Authors: S. K. Sarkar and Girija K. Bharat
Publication Details: Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development
This paper examines the government's policies and programs aimed at meeting SDG 6 targets on safe drinking water and sanitation. It evaluates their alignment with intended outputs, outcomes, and impacts. The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), launched in 2014, significantly improved toilet access, while the Jal Jeevan Mission aims for universal drinking water coverage. Despite progress, challenges remain due to population growth, urbanization, and climate change. Strengthening data collection and adopting a systems-thinking approach are recommended to sustain and enhance these efforts.
Urban Aquifer Health Assessment and its Management for Sustainable Water Supply: An Innovative Approach Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Rajarshi Saha, Sai Sowmya Chiravuri, Iswar Chandra Das, Sreenivas Kandrika, Vinod Kumar Kumranchat, Prakash Chauhan, Vara Laxmi Chitikela
Publication Details: Groundwater for Sustainable Development
This research combines machine learning (ML) and geospatial analysis along with groundwater sustainability management strategy components for urban-peri-urban aquifer sustainability management in Vizianagaram extended city limits in Southern India. It dwells on urban and peri-urban groundwater sustainability, emphasizing balanced water abstraction and availability without harming socio-economic or environmental factors. The independent variables used in the study include groundwater potential (GWP) modelling, integrating remote sensing (RS) and geospatial techniques. The prediction accuracy of urban aquifer health is enhanced by the various statistical and ML models like random forest and support vector machines. The study also develops a water management strategy incorporating policy, stakeholder participation, and SWOT analysis to ensure future sustainability. The research highlights challenges, opportunities, and efficient management solutions to support sustainable urban water use.
Read More: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352801X24000535
What Makes a Successful Sponge City Project? Expert Perceptions of Critical Factors in Integrated Urban Water Management in the Asia-Pacific
Authors: Scott Hawken, S.M.E. Sepasgozar, Veljko Prodanovic, Jia Jing, Ashley Bakelmun, B. Avazpour, Shengquan Che, Kefeng Zhang
Publication Details: Sustainable Cities and Society, 2021
Sponge City (SC) projects offer an innovative approach to urban water management by tackling flood control, water quality, and ecological resilience. However, key factors influencing their success remain underexplored. This study analyses insights from 90 urban water experts in Australia and China using a mixed-methods approach, including literature review, expert workshops, and surveys. Findings reveal that while hydrological and ecological goals are well addressed, socio-cultural, governance, and economic aspects are lacking. Australia’s water-sensitive urban design (WSUD) has improved water quality and ecology, whereas China’s SC efforts focus on flood control but lack investment in storm water reuse and stakeholder engagement. Both countries face challenges in long-term maintenance, cross-sector collaboration, and policy alignment. The study highlights the need for stronger governance, financing mechanisms, and interdisciplinary collaboration. A systems-based approach is essential to enhance stakeholder engagement, economic sustainability, and resilience, ensuring the successful expansion of SC initiatives amid climate change and urbanization.
Read More: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S221067072100593X
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