Over the past 15 years, a Cambodian NGO has successfully implemented a community-driven bottled water initiative in rural communities. There are, however some challenges and risks, such as the lack of full government regulation and potential concerns about unfair competition.
| Title | Bottled water : a viable alternative for ensuring safe drinking water in rural Cambodia? |
| Publication Type | Case Study |
| Year of Publication | 2023 |
| Authors | Shiva, R, Dey, D |
| Pagination | 9 p. : 1 tab. |
| Date Published | 08/2023 |
| Publisher | IRC |
| Place Published | The Hague, the Netherlands |
| Publication Language | English |
| Keywords | bottled water |
| Abstract | This paper focuses on a compelling case study of Teuk Saat 1001, a Cambodian NGO established by 1001fontaines. Over the past 15 years, Teuk Saat 1001 has successfully implemented a community-driven bottled water initiative in rural communities. Currently, Teuk Saat 1001 operates a network of over 300 water kiosks, which are small purification units directly set up in underserved rural areas. The case study highlights some challenges and risks, such as the lack of full government regulation and potential concerns about unfair competition with the commercial bottled water sector due to its subsidy-based financial model. The case study suggests that such unconventional approaches could contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), which aims to ensure access to water and sanitation for all. This would require a shift from infrastructure-centred policies to context-based and need-focused systems. Major development funders are starting to recognise the potential of these approaches and are supporting sovereign investments in them. By embracing these alternative solutions, governments can foster inclusive and sustainable access to safe drinking water while addressing the challenges of SDG6. It’s an interesting perspective on how community-driven initiatives can contribute to global sustainability goals. |
