We are pleased to share the results of the second edition of the IWA Climate Smart Utilities Recognition Programme. The 2023 Recognition Programme aims to raise awareness of the steps being taken by water and sanitation utilities operating in challenging conditions to respond to climate change. This initiative seeks to recognise ambitious and innovative utilities in low- and middle-income countries that are leading the way towards a low-carbon water and sanitation sector, embracing the shift needed to adapt to and mitigate climate change. The 2023 edition is proudly supported by AfWASA.
The application window for the recognition programme closed in October 2023 with a total of 35 applications received from 18 low- and middle-income countries,* highlighting a broad outreach of the initiative. The applications represent a diverse array of utilities facing common yet unique challenges and solutions.
Following a robust review, 20 applications in total are being recognised as Climate Smart, based on the framework defined by IWA (i.e., the application submitted has been regarded sound and worth to be shared with the IWA community by majority of the jury). Out of these 20 applications, 10 were considered outstanding by the jury, as the actions presented are inspiring and ambitious considering their local context. One application has been given a special recognition for the outstanding climate smart actions in collaboration with utilities in the Ganges basin. Each application was reviewed by three different expert, independent jury members.
