CHAPTER 2
Definitions of access to sanitation and water (i.e. distance to the supply and personal security) and adequate coverage (i.e. per capita served) need to take into account the type of the installations and their use, as well as willingness and ability of users to pay. The ability of households to access water in sufficient quantity for their needs and to have access to improved sanitation are important determinants of their capacity to adopt hygienic behaviour and participate in measures for controlling water-related diseases. The management of water as a collective/ public good is often an integral part of community life and is deeply embedded in social, cultural and livelihood strategies and behaviours. An understanding of attitudes and practices regarding water use, human waste and solid waste disposal at the household and community level, whether for economic or domestic activity, is critical to formulation of all strategies and activities intended to provide sustainable and appropriate services. A critical review of domestic water supply schemes should pay attention to the quality of water/ water safety at the point of supply, in the method of transport and finally for storage and use at the household or user level in the context of domestic hygiene . WHO water quality standards can be applied at all points of the collection, distribution, storage and use process. 2. Users have an important role to play and their involvement should be fostered via a participatory approach The involvement of users in water management is central .to the development of water and waste management services. This can include the provision of community labour in the construction of schemes, decision-making about siting installations, collection of tariffs, and operation and maintenance. In low-income areas or small population groups such as villages, this involvement is likely to be through community-based organisations such as water user or management committees. The extent of community involvement in the management of water supply or sanitation services will vary with the context, the technical design of the installed systems, and the resources available at community level. Both the capacity and the limitations of community involvement need to be taken into account. Long-term sustainability of facilities in low-income communities cannot be guaranteed without a strong sense of community responsibility and ownership. Implementing a community-based approach involves training of field and administrative staff in participatory techniques, gender and equity and adopting a flexible approach to project implementation. Local knowledge – traditional or otherwise - cultural values, indigenous practices, lifestyles and habits relating to water management and their application need to be analysed, respected and, where possible, supported. 3. Gender implications should be examined and taken into account at all stages of the planning and implementation process The central role played by women, especially in the developing world, in the provision, service management and husbandry of water, primarily in the domestic, small and medium enterprises (SME) and small holding farms, is widely recognized. Women’s participation and gender issues should be accorded special consideration in relation to water management and use. In both rural and urban environments, much time and energy is spent by women and girls in water-hauling; time and energy that cannot be devoted to other family or economic activities. Consequently water resources management is an important factor in determining women’s availability to participate in these activities. Gender implications need to be considered at all stages of the planning and implementation of water-related activities, with consideration given to the different social, economic and cultural roles assigned to both men and women. Not only 42