Summary

In this Study Session, you have learned that:

• Rapid increase in population and unplanned expansion of slums and peri-urban areas are typical features of rapid urbanisation.
• Providing WASH services in an urban context presents numerous challenges, particularly as a result of increasing population and increased pressure on infrastructure. Limited financial resources makes it difficult to meet the rapidly growing need for improved WASH services.
• Vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly and the disabled, are likely to be more seriously affected than the rest of the urban community, if their access to WASH services is limited. WASH services should be equitable and inclusive.
• Urban youth unemployment is a significant problem in low-income countries that could be improved with the development of new WASH enterprises.
• Emergencies such as disease outbreaks and floods are closely related to WASH provision. Promoting safe sanitation and hygiene practices and providing household water treatment products can reduce or prevent the damage that WASH-related emergencies can cause to urban communities.