Solutions that float: tackling wastewater challenges in communities built on water

Overview More than two million people around the world live in water villages, settlements built on or above lakes, rivers and coastlines, often beyond the reach of formal wastewater and sanitation infrastructure. With limited access to safe water and no reliable way to treat wastewater, these communities discharge millions of litres of raw sewage into the very ecosystems they rely on daily. This technical brief presents practical, cost-effective options for improving wastewater management and sanitation provision in water villages and highlights community-led innovations that reduce pollution, protect public health, and strengthen resilience to environmental risks.

What You’ll Find

• Case studies and technical profiles of floating toilets, biodigesters and modular treatment systems
• Implementation challenges and key considerations for infrastructure in flood-prone, low-income areas
• Eight recommendations for policymakers to accelerate action and investment in off-grid sanitation

Why It Matters

Wastewater management in water villages is a pressing but often overlooked issue with significant implications for public health, ecological integrity, and climate resilience. Investing in decentralised wastewater treatment systems, and culturally appropriate sanitation systems not only addresses pollution at its source but also supports livelihoods, gender equity, and sustainable development in some of the world's most vulnerable and resource-constrained communities. This technical brief helps close the knowledge gap and catalyse informed action.

Skills: Graphic Design Circular economy & waste management planning Design Editorial Design Layout Waste Systems Analysis

Tags: health pollution sanitation wastewater Nature-Based Solutions Community Resilience