Handpump, BangladeshAt Mott MacDonald,
we understand the pressures created by population growth and
climate change on the finite, readily available water resources in
the populated parts of the globe and how they affect communities
and water security. In some regions this is exacerbated by the
trap- pings of affluence, for example power showers. The population
may be too impoverished to develop sustainable sources; in other
locations water is seen as a right, but the cost of supply is not
covered by charges. Cultural traditions which shape how water is
used may be under increasing pressure as water becomes
scarcer.
In Uganda and Tanzania we are supporting communities develop
sustainable potable water supplies, reducing the burden on water
carriers and disease associated with polluted sources. In Jordan we
have assisted plan and develop infrastructure for capturing rare
floodwaters for diversion into the Jordan Valley irrigation
systems. Treated sewage effluent can be used for landscaping – as
with the Kuwait Forestry project. In Central Asia we are assisting
rehabilitate canal systems to supply rural populations, with the
livelihoods of millions dependent on sophisticated but decaying
infrastructure.
Key to our success is understanding the needs of communities and
that while engineering measures may be vital, properly engaging
with the users, operators and system managers is essential. For
example, in arid North East Brazil, we worked with schools to
develop an understanding of regional hydrology, and how resources
can be kept sustainable.
Read about our work around the world