| Water is the source of life and human civilization. The
future of the world depends on the use we make of this finite and vulnerable resource
today. It is necessary to promote a new attitude to water, based not only on scientific
knowledge, but also on cultural and ethical values. (IHP-V Programme 1996-2001) |
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| Over the years, women have accumulated an impressive store of
environmental wisdom. Women have always been the ones to find water, choosing their
sources according to certain criteria such as accessibility, availability, distance, time,
quality and use. This is why the Special Project encourages studies on women's traditional
knowledge. Women's knowledge and experience in the supply and use of water is invaluable, and many problems could be avoided if women were consulted on such items as local sources of water, the location of a well or the design of a pump. At present, the special needs of women are rarely taken into account when implementing sanitation projects. |
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The Special Project encourages and facilitates the drawing up of regional and national policies taking into account women's needs and their contribution to the management of national water resources. For example, in 1997, national policies were developed in Niger and Chad. Furthermore, women are invaluable as environmental educators and communicators both within the family and the community. |
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Involving women in water and sanitation programmes would greatly contribute to protecting our precious water resources for future generations and to changing our attitudes to health and hygiene. |
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