POLICY DIALOGUE: SUSTAINABLE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS FOR GHANA
a) Regulatory and Institutional Framework for Sanitation Management
b) Managing Sanitation in Urban Ghana: Barriers and the Way Forward
c) Sustainability Assessment Tool for Measuring Efficient Sanitation Management
d) Developing an Appropriate Institutional Framework for Sanitation Management
The United Nations (UN) has recognised access to water and sanitation as a human right, acknowledging the fundamental importance of these necessities in every person’s life. Unfortunately, approximately 2.4 billion people worldwide still lack access to improved sanitation, with almost two-thirds of the affected population residing in the Asia-Pacific region. Poor sanitation not only undermines human dignity but also has a detrimental impact on society, primarily leading to diseases and premature death. Despite the high priority given to this issue by the UN and development agencies, the situation has yet to improve in many developing countries. However, there is hope. The potential for positive change is significant. While access to sanitation facilities has increased significantly in the past, there are concerns regarding managing blackwater to realise the benefits of sanitation. In contrast to centralised sanitation, decentralised sanitation is more sustainable, providing ample resource recovery and recycling opportunities. This potential for positive change and technological advancements underscores the pressing need to raise awareness and develop policies and decision-support tools, such as sustainability assessment.