Water, Sanitation and Hygiene – WASH
Clean water and hygiene are essential for our health. With dozens of projects in various countries the German Red Cross is committed to improve water supplies, sanitation and hygiene, thereby reducing the outbreak of diseases.
Lack of reliable access to clean water and sanitation
Billions of people worldwide lack permanent and reliable access to clean water. Likewise, more than half of the world's population don´t have access to safe sanitation facilities. People living in the Global South are particularly affected.
Especially in disaster situations and crisis regions, clean water is one of the most important relief goods – both, as a source of food and for maintaining hygienic living conditions. If people have to switch to contaminated water, there is a risk of pathogens spreading.
German Red Cross WASH Projects
The coronavirus has renewed our awareness of the importance of proper handwashing to prevent infections. In close cooperation with the local Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, the German Red Cross conducts hygiene training courses. Besides, the GRC is working with local partners to develop new concepts for improved water supplies – especially in light of altering circumstances due to climate change.
In disaster and crisis areas, the GRC transports drinking water to the affected people. It also comes with extensive expertise and experience in water treatment, the repair and installation of water and sewage treatment plants, as well as the construction of sanitation facilities.
