In a recent paper [1], Sally Sutton proposes that “low cost behavioural and technology changes need to be explored and perhaps offered as options alongside those more expensive alternatives in rural water supply” in order to increase cost-effectiveness and progress. She questions whether the improved water supply technologies that are considered as acceptable by most Governments and donors (handpumps or higher levels of service) are “bringing about a consistent and absolute change in water quality”. "These ‘safe’ technologies are shown not to be providing safe water for as much as a quarter of supplies and additionally 40% of consumers may be drinking water contaminated after it leaves the source”. In addition, the average unit costs of these technologies – between US$ 3,000 – 10,000 (EUR 1,900 - 6,300) - is too expensive for users, making rural water supply almost totally donor dependent. More data is needed on how much long-term improvement to water quality can be achieved by different types of technology.

[1 Sutton, S. (2008). The risks of a technology-based MDG indicator for rural water supply. Paper presented at the 33rd WEDC International Conference in Accra, Ghana, 2008. Download here

Related web site: Rural Water Supply Network

Contact: Dr Sally Sutton, SWL Consultants, UK, sally@ssutton.fsbusiness.co.uk

Tags: water collection, water quality, water supply