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Reaching Universal Coverage of Water and Sanitation Services: Is Regionalization a Sustainable Path for Developing Countries?

Authors :
Narzetti, Willian
Pinto, Francisco Silva
Narzetti, Daniel
Cetrulo, Tiago
Source :
Water (20734441); Aug2023, Vol. 15 Issue 15, p2756, 16p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Achieving universal access to water and sanitation services in developing countries requires a coherent legal, political, and institutional environment, along with a clear financial strategy. Regionalizing utilities may be crucial for addressing disparities, economic inequalities, and governance challenges. Regionalization offers economies of scale, resource efficiency, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The cornerstone will be ensuring the financial-economic viability of regional utilities, considering their social impacts in terms of affordability. A case study of the state of Santa Catarina (Brazil) is assessed. In the case of Santa Catarina, only four regional utilities currently generate sufficient revenue, without factoring in necessary investments, indicating the need to review design parameters to improve operational efficiency and increase revenues. Additional financial support may be required to ensure universal access. Tariff adjustments must strike a balance between cost effectiveness and affordability for families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20734441
Volume :
15
Issue :
15
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Water (20734441)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
169925805
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/w15152756