Water Security in Northwest Syria
Achieving One Health through Food Security
WaterFOre: Sustainable Water Supply for Rural Communities in Syria through Forward Osmosis, addresses the urgent need for a safe water supply in Syria for drinking and hygiene. Conflict has damaged water supply networks and millions of people lack regular access to safe water. Vulnerable families and children, especially displaced people and those in rural areas, have had to resort to unsafe alternatives leading to rising rates of cholera and diarrhoea. The region has a history of drought and over exploitation of groundwater resources, making access to water a key driver of conflict.
Anticipated Outcomes and Impact
The ultimate impacts of the project will be provision of safe/affordable water for drinking and hygiene purposes contributing to at least two UN Sustainable Development Goals: (3) good health and well-being and (6) clean water and sanitation. These include targets by 2030 to: achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all; expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programmes, including water harvesting, desalination, water efficiency, wastewater treatment, recycling and reuse technologies; and to substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from water pollution and contamination.