Cross-sectoral benefits of action in sanitation

Explore our research with the University College London Engineering for International Development Centre, highlighting new ways to achieve integrated outcomes within and beyond the sanitation sector.

Action in sanitation has benefits that reach far beyond the sanitation sector. Approaches to improving sanitation commonly support the provision of basic sanitation infrastructure and service delivery. However, there are cross-sectoral benefits all along the sanitation value chain that have a positive impact in other sectors, particularly health, education, industry, climate change and gender equity.

Our research makes clear that action in sanitation can help achieve 130 Targets across all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Action in sanitation supports the achievement of progressive international outcomes on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). What is less well recognised is that action in sanitation generates benefits that can help drive progress towards achieving all 17 SDGs.

The aim of this policy brief, co-developed by WaterAid and University College London (UCL) Engineering for International Development Centre, is to highlight new pathways for achieving integrated outcomes within and beyond the sanitation sector. To that end, three key principles have been identified to guide all efforts towards achieving all 17 SDGs:

1. To achieve multiple benefits.
2. To identify commonly missed opportunities.
3. To leverage equitable outcomes.

Download the policy brief in English, French or Portuguese, and explore our collection of case studies providing practical insights into how action in sanitation addresses these three principles.

Top image: Eniyish Ayana, one of 40 trash collectors in Finote Selam, Ethiopia, has her hopes fixed on her dream of becoming a midwife. West Gojjam, Amhara. June 2018.