In refugee camps, water is scarce, sanitation is fragile, and hygiene is a daily struggle. Overcrowding and failing infrastructure expose millions to disease and indignity. However, sustainable WASH innovations can turn crises into resilience. This article explores the urgent need for decentralized solutions that ensure lasting health, dignity, and hope for displaced communities worldwide.
Sustainable WASH Innovations for Refugee Camps
Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene
(WASH) remains a critical challenge in refugee camps, where overcrowding and
inadequate infrastructure increase health risks and social vulnerabilities.
This study examines systemic WASH deficiencies in conflict-affected areas,
focusing on the intersection of humanitarian crises and sustainable innovation.
It highlights key issues such as intermittent water access, inadequate
sanitation, and poor hygiene practices while proposing scalable, decentralized
interventions that align with the realities of refugee populations. The
findings provide policymakers and engineers with evidence-based insights to
move beyond temporary relief efforts toward long-term, context-driven
solutions.
A global review of 90 refugee camps revealed
that latrines are often shared by 27 people on average, with some camps
exceeding 1,000 persons per unit, significantly increasing disease transmission
risks (Hossain et al., 2016). Contaminated water sources further exacerbate
health concerns, as many camps rely on inadequate water treatment systems,
leading to outbreaks of gastrointestinal and waterborne illnesses (Khoury et
al., 2016; Kawak et al., 2024). Limited access to clean water also undermines
essential hygiene practices, such as handwashing, which became especially
critical during the COVID-19 pandemic (Hossain, 2021). Studies from South Sudan
demonstrate that while refugees understand hygiene's importance, insufficient
soap and sanitation facilities hinder disease prevention (Phillips et al.,
2015; Husain et al., 2015).
Beyond health implications, inadequate WASH
services disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, particularly women and
children. Women often bear the burden of water collection, exposing them to
safety risks and limiting their economic opportunities (Sibanda et al., 2023).
Additionally, resource scarcity exacerbates gender-based vulnerabilities,
underscoring the need for targeted interventions that address both
infrastructural gaps and sociocultural challenges (Pérez, 2021).
To enhance WASH access, policymakers must
prioritize scalable interventions that integrate decentralized water treatment,
portable handwashing stations, and culturally responsive sanitation models.
Collaborations with local organizations can improve implementation by aligning
solutions with refugee needs and UNHCR standards (Chatila et al., 2021).
Addressing these systemic barriers will not only improve health outcomes but
also foster long-term resilience and dignity for displaced populations.
2. Introduction
2.1 The Humanitarian
Significance of WASH in Conflict Zones
Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene
(WASH) is a fundamental human right, yet it remains unattainable for millions
of refugees displaced by conflict. Over 26 million refugees currently
lack adequate WASH services, exposing them to severe health risks and
compounding existing vulnerabilities (Altare et al., 2019; Hussein et al.,
2020). In refugee camps, where overcrowding and limited infrastructure are ordinary,
poor WASH conditions directly contribute to disease outbreaks. Contaminated
water alone accounts for nearly 80% of reported illnesses, including
cholera, dysentery, and acute respiratory infections (Alazzeh et al., 2019;
Phillips et al., 2015). The failure to implement sustainable WASH solutions in
these settings perpetuates a cycle of preventable suffering.
The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6
advocates for universal access to clean water and sanitation, yet persistent
funding gaps and fragmented governance hinder progress (Suryani et al., 2023;
Ajibade et al., 2016). Despite the establishment of global frameworks, many
refugee camps operate with makeshift or deteriorating WASH infrastructure,
leaving populations reliant on inconsistent aid deliveries. Table 1
illustrates the disparities in WASH access across major refugee camps,
highlighting the urgent need for scalable, long-term interventions. The
percentage of refugees with access to essential drinking water services across
various camps highlights disparities and areas needing improvement.
Figure
1: WASH Access in Major Refugee Camps
|
Refugee Camp |
Country |
Population |
Access to Basic Drinking Water
Services (%) |
|
Kutupalong |
Bangladesh |
800,000 |
70% |
|
Bidibidi |
Uganda |
230,000 |
60% |
|
Dadaab |
Kenya |
217,000 |
75% |
|
Zaatari |
Jordan |
76,000 |
85% |
|
Kakuma |
Kenya |
196,000 |
65% |
Data sourced from UNHCR reports and
humanitarian assessments(2022)
Beyond health risks, inadequate WASH services
disproportionately impact women and children. Women often bear the
responsibility of water collection, which not only increases their exposure to
gender-based violence but also limits their participation in education and
economic activities (Sibanda et al., 2023). Moreover, poorly designed
sanitation facilities heighten the risk of harassment, reinforcing systemic
vulnerabilities (Pérez, 2021). Addressing these challenges requires WASH
strategies that incorporate culturally sensitive designs and localized
management models to enhance safety and accessibility.
Technological advancements present promising
solutions for improving WASH conditions in refugee camps. Table 2 Comparative
Analysis of WASH Technologies in Refugee Camps of different WASH technologies,
such as solar desalination and decentralized wastewater treatment,
in conflict-affected settings. Emerging innovations, including mobile water
purification units and composting toilets, offer cost-effective alternatives to
traditional borehole systems. However, integrating these solutions requires
strong policy frameworks and partnerships between humanitarian agencies,
governments, and engineering experts (Husain et al., 2015; Uddin et al., 2022).
Table 2: Comparative Analysis of WASH
Technologies in Refugee Camps
|
Technology |
Initial Cost |
Scalability |
Maintenance Requirements |
Suitability for Refugee
Settings |
|
Solar Desalination |
High |
Moderate |
Low |
Suitable in coastal areas with
high sunlight exposure |
|
Boreholes with Hand Pumps |
Moderate |
High |
Moderate |
Widely used; effective with
proper groundwater availability |
|
Rainwater Harvesting Systems |
Low |
High |
Low |
Effective in regions with
adequate rainfall |
|
Portable Water Purification
Units |
Moderate |
High |
Low |
Ideal for emergencies and
rapid deployment |
Source:
Adapted from various humanitarian technology assessments.
2.2 Limitations in WASH Access and Service Reliability
Standard metrics, such as those set by the World
Health Organization (WHO), often indicate improved WASH access in refugee
camps. However, these assessments fail to capture persistent service
inefficiencies that affect daily life. Many refugees endure two-hour queues
for water, while non-functional latrines remain a common issue (Meyer et
al., 2017).
The failure to maintain WASH infrastructure
post-implementation further exposes the gap between reported access and
actual usability (Ajibade et al., 2016). Many facilities break down due to poor
maintenance and insufficient oversight, leaving refugees without reliable
services. This disparity fuels recurring health crises, as unsanitary
conditions contribute to disease outbreaks and increased vulnerability.
To improve WASH interventions, policymakers
must shift focus from coverage statistics to service reliability and user
experience. Ensuring regular maintenance, community engagement, and
sustainability planning will enhance WASH effectiveness and prevent further
humanitarian failures.
2.3 Research Questions
Building on the preceding discussion, this
study explores the complex WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) challenges in
refugee camps through the following research questions:
- How do water scarcity and infrastructure
failures contribute to WASH challenges in refugee camps? This
question investigates the role of failing boreholes, groundwater
depletion, and inadequate infrastructure in exacerbating sanitation and
hygiene issues. Additionally, it examines how environmental stressors,
such as prolonged droughts, strain water-sharing agreements between
refugees and host communities (Grignano et al., 2024; Dhesi et al., 2017).
- How do cultural and environmental factors
influence sanitation accessibility and safety? Many
latrine designs fail to consider privacy needs, increasing the risk of
harassment and assault, particularly for women and children. Furthermore,
environmental conditions, such as extreme heat or seasonal floods, impact
the feasibility and sustainability of sanitation facilities, requiring
adaptive solutions tailored to specific refugee settings (Chan et al.,
2018; Xu, 2023).
- What are the most cost-effective and
scalable sanitation solutions for displaced communities? This
question explores innovative yet practical approaches, including
decentralized sanitation systems like solar desalination and locally
managed waste treatment models. The potential use of natural materials,
such as mycelium-based filtration systems, offers a sustainable
alternative to conventional, high-cost methods (Reardon et al., 2019; Ali
et al., 2015).
By addressing these questions, the study aims
to identify actionable strategies for improving WASH services in refugee camps.
The following section will discuss the research methodology, detailing the data
collection and analytical approaches used to assess these challenges and
solutions systematically.
2.4 Addressing Knowledge Gaps in WASH Assessment
Traditional WASH assessment metrics
often obscure the realities that refugees face daily. Current indicators focus
primarily on water access but fail to consider flow consistency,
seasonal scarcity, and community acceptance (Bishara et al., 2020; Akhter
et al., 2020). This limited perspective leads to short-term interventions, such
as water trucking, rather than long-term infrastructure improvements
tailored to displaced populations' evolving needs.
Addressing these knowledge gaps is essential
for developing more effective humanitarian strategies. Policies should
integrate comprehensive WASH indicators that assess service
reliability, environmental sustainability, and user experience. Without
these refinements, interventions risk remaining reactive rather than sustainable
and community-driven.
The intersection of conflict-induced
displacement, inadequate WASH services, and flawed assessment approaches
underscores the need for a fundamental policy shift. By prioritizing innovative,
long-term solutions, humanitarian agencies can enhance both immediate
relief efforts and long-term community resilience in refugee settings.
3. Literature Review
3.1 Evaluating WASH Strategies in Refugee Settings
Current WASH interventions in refugee camps
focus primarily on acute-phase responses, such as cholera prevention,
while neglecting long-term sustainability (Owen et al., 2023). Most studies
assess immediate health threats, yet few examine whether these
interventions remain effective over time. Research on climate adaptation in
WASH systems is notably lacking, with only 12% of existing literature
addressing its role in mitigating vulnerabilities linked to climate change
(Pérez, 2021; Hershey et al., 2011).
Additionally, gender-disaggregated data
remains scarce, limiting efforts to understand the distinct challenges
women and girls face in accessing safe sanitation facilities. Inadequate
attention to gender-specific WASH barriers exacerbates health risks and
heightens exposure to gender-based violence (Alemayehu et al., 2016;
Ajibade et al., 2016).
To improve WASH interventions, policymakers
must shift their focus from coverage statistics to ensuring service reliability
and enhancing user experience."To improve WASH strategies, researchers and
policymakers must prioritize sustainability, climate resilience, and
gender-inclusive frameworks, ensuring that interventions address both
immediate needs and long-term challenges in refugee settings.
3.2 Challenges in Implementing Effective WASH Programs
Several barriers hinder the effective
implementation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in
refugee camps. Infrastructure failures are a significant concern, with 70%
of camp water systems deteriorating within two years of operation, leading
to reduced access to potable water and increased health risks from
waterborne diseases (Davidson et al., 2022; Johnson, 2011).
Environmental factors further exacerbate these
challenges. Many refugee-hosting regions struggle with water scarcity,
and recent assessments show declining groundwater availability due to
excessive extraction and climate variability (Alam et al., 2024; Alam et al.,
2023). Without sustainable water management, these shortages will continue to
threaten WASH reliability.
Cultural barriers also limit WASH
accessibility. Studies indicate that 55% of women avoid latrines after dark
due to safety concerns, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive
sanitation designs that prioritize privacy and security (Ajibade et al.,
2016; Schmitt et al., 2021). Addressing these barriers requires robust
infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and culturally responsive WASH
solutions tailored to refugee needs.
3.3 Unresolved Issues and
Research Gaps in WASH Implementation
Effective WASH interventions require ongoing
assessment, yet critical gaps remain in research and implementation. These gaps
hinder the development of sustainable, scalable solutions in refugee settings.
Three key areas—data gaps, implementation barriers, and gender inequality—highlight
the need for further investigation and policy improvements.
Data Gaps
Most WASH research in refugee camps focuses on
short-term emergency responses, with few studies extending beyond a
twelve-month timeframe (Mareng, 2010). The absence of longitudinal studies
limits understanding of intervention effectiveness over time, making it challenging
to assess infrastructure durability, behavioural adoption, and long-term health
outcomes. Establishing standardized tracking systems can enhance data
collection and guide evidence-based policy adjustments.
Implementation Barriers
Innovative sanitation solutions, such as composting
toilets, offer potential for waste reduction yet remain underutilized due
to unclear feasibility and operational challenges (Nasri et al., 2017).
Insufficient post-implementation evaluations further hinder the scaling of
sustainable interventions. Research on cost-effectiveness, maintenance
requirements, and user acceptance is essential to ensure the success of
alternative sanitation models in refugee settings.
Gender Inequality
WASH interventions often overlook gender-specific
challenges, particularly in sanitation access and safety. Women and girls
face increased risks of harassment due to inadequate privacy in
sanitation facilities. Research on culturally appropriate designs and
community-driven safety measures can improve gender-sensitive WASH strategies.
Addressing these research gaps will strengthen
WASH interventions, ensuring they are sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to
the long-term needs of refugee populations.
Considerable
work has been done to explore immediate health concerns associated with water
and sanitation in refugee contexts, but substantial gaps remain in addressing
long-term sustainability and gender-sensitive approaches. Future research must
focus on establishing robust monitoring frameworks and investigating
innovative, culturally accepted solutions that adequately serve the diverse
needs of refugee populations.
4 Methodology
4.1 Desk-Based Research
Approach
This
study utilized a comprehensive desk-based research approach involving the
compilation and synthesis of over 120 peer-reviewed articles, datasets from the
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) spanning from 2015 to
2025, and field evaluations from 15 conflict zones. By cross-referencing
engineering reports with health outcomes, the study aimed to identify hidden
correlations affecting WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services in
refugee settings. This triangulation method enhances credibility, allowing for
a nuanced understanding of the structural challenges and potential solutions
within existing WASH frameworks Asgedom et al. (2023) (Mulatu et al., 2022; Als
et al., 2020).
4.2 Data Sources
The
primary sources of data included peer-reviewed journals and key UN reports.
Notable among these are the World Health Organization's Emergency WASH
Guidelines and the UNHCR's 2024 Global Trends Report. These documents provided foundational
insights into established WASH standards and the humanitarian landscape
affecting refugees (Kittayapong et al., 2017; Als et al., 2020). Secondary data
was gleaned from detailed case studies, including those from Jordan's Za'atari
camp and the Rohingya settlements in Bangladesh. These case studies served to
contextualize research findings and validate the applicability of identified
interventions in real-world settings (Walsh et al., 2023; Loo et al., 2019).
4.3 Analytical Framework
The
analytical framework employed a comparative evaluation of WASH solutions,
focusing on three central criteria: cost-feasibility, scalability, and cultural
adaptability. The threshold for cost feasibility was set at less than $5 per
user, allowing for the assessment of economically sustainable innovations that
could be integrated into existing refugee support mechanisms (Mulatu et al.,
2022; Zohura et al., 2020). Technologies were ranked based on maintenance
complexity and the level of local skill required for effective implementation,
with the aim of facilitating local empowerment and ownership of water and
sanitation initiatives. This structured evaluation framework helps in
prioritizing interventions that are not only technologically sound but also culturally
and contextually appropriate (Kuhl et al., 2021; Vilabril et al., 2021).
In
summary, this methodology integrates a robust analytical approach with diverse
data sources to present a comprehensive framework for evaluating WASH
interventions in refugee settings, aiming thoroughly to uncover actionable
insights for policymakers and practitioners.
5. Findings &
Analysis
5.1 Unrecognized Barriers
in Water and Sanitation Infrastructure
Intermittent
Water Access: The term "improved water" often inaccurately reflects
the reality of access, which can mean merely four hours of daily supply from
pumps located a significant distance away. For instance, in Chad, refugees
routinely trek long distances to access water, which restricts their time
available for income-generating activities Chuah et al. (2018). This scenario
becomes burdensome not only for refugees but also for host communities, which
can experience a decline in water availability, emphasizing the urgent need for
investment in more streamlined infrastructure solutions.
Groundwater
Depletion: Emergency wells established in arid regions have been shown to
impact groundwater levels significantly, with annual declines reported in
various contexts. In Sudan, this depletion has led to escalated tensions and
conflicts between farmers and refugees, exacerbating existing survival
pressures and highlighting systemic failures to develop alternative water
management strategies (Zeidan et al., 2019).
5.2 Sanitation Safety
Risks
Cultural
Barriers: The reality of communal latrines starkly violates privacy norms,
resulting in a significant number of women choosing to restrict both food and
fluid intake to minimize their need to use these facilities. Furthermore, the
heightened risk associated with nighttime usage of latrines correlates with an
increase in reported incident rates of assault against women, emphasizing the
necessity of integrating gender-sensitive design principles in sanitation
infrastructure (Asfari et al., 2024; Brandenberger et al., 2019).
Waste
Disposal Gaps: Open defecation practices, particularly near food preparation
sites, can elevate diarrhoea risks. The absence of effective waste segregation
systems during periods of flooding facilitates the rapid spread of diseases,
further endangering public health in already vulnerable environments (Richard
et al., 2019; Benjamen et al., 2021). Addressing these waste disposal
shortcomings through localized solutions and community engagement in sanitation
practices is imperative for overall health improvement.
5.3 Overlooked Health
Multipliers
Chemical
Contamination: The use of chlorine tablets in water treatment is known to
introduce trihalomethanes, carcinogens that can exceed WHO limits. Long-term
exposure to these byproducts raises concerns, particularly regarding pediatric
health outcomes, including links to kidney issues in young children (Portela et
al., 2024). This underscores the importance of careful monitoring and regulation
of chemical agents used in water treatment protocols to safeguard health.
Post-Collection
Contamination: There are significant risks associated with the handling of
treated water post-collection. Evidence indicates that treated water can test
positive for harmful bacteria due to contamination from dirty storage
containers (Hynie et al., 2022). Improving hygiene practices around the storage
and handling of treated water is vital to ensure the intended benefits of
treatment are realized.
5.4 Systemic Blind Spots
Data
Gaps: A critical finding from this study is that a small percentage of
humanitarian agencies engage in tracking water quality beyond the initial
installation of systems (Winn et al., 2018). Furthermore, the absence of
metrics to quantify "water stress" within camps limits the capability
of stakeholders to respond effectively to resource depletion and potential
crises. A more systematic approach to data collection and analysis is crucial
for understanding long-term trends in water and sanitation access and facilitating
informed decision-making.
5.5 Innovative Approaches
to WASH in Refugee Camps
Solar
Desalination: Successful pilot projects have demonstrated the feasibility of
solar desalination technology, producing water efficiently and
cost-effectively. This system not only showcases a significant reduction in
environmental impacts compared to conventional desalination techniques but also
represents a viable, sustainable solution for water scarcity in arid regions
(Mangrio & Forss, 2017; Wanigaratne et al., 2018).
Mycoremediation
Toilets: Emerging trials have highlighted the potential applicability of
mycoremediation toilets, where fungi decompose waste effectively. User
preference for these systems suggests a positive reception among communities
and the potential for scaling up these toilets in similar contexts (Paisi et
al., 2020; Coumans & Wark, 2024).
In
summary, the findings illustrate multifaceted challenges inherent in providing
adequate WASH services in refugee camps, revealing hidden infrastructure
issues, silent sanitation crises, overlooked health multipliers, and systemic
blind spots. Addressing these challenges—with a focus on sustainable,
culturally adaptable solutions—will be critical to improving health and
environmental outcomes for displaced populations.
6 . Discussion
6.1 Policy Implications
6.1 Strengthening WASH Policies for Sustainable Implementation
The findings of this study highlight the
urgent need for updated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policies
within humanitarian frameworks. Existing guidelines often prioritize access
over sustainability, leading to inconsistent service delivery in refugee camps.
To address these gaps, policymakers must adopt measurable water reliability
metrics, ensure environmental sustainability, and enhance local
governance structures.
Mandating Water Reliability Standards
The UNHCR should require standardized water
reliability metrics, measuring the number of hours per day that water is
accessible in all refugee camps (Yên et al., 2016). Mere access to water
does not ensure availability when needed, and unreliable supply forces refugees
to travel long distances, increasing health and safety risks. Establishing minimum
daily supply thresholds can help ensure consistent access and reduce water
scarcity pressures.
Implementing Environmental Safeguards
Borehole projects must undergo mandatory
environmental impact assessments to prevent groundwater depletion and
ecosystem strain. Over-extraction can fuel local conflicts, particularly in
regions where refugees and host communities compete for water resources.
Governments and humanitarian agencies should integrate sustainable
groundwater management policies into WASH planning to balance immediate
needs with long-term water security.
Enhancing Local WASH Governance
Policymakers must strengthen community-led
WASH governance models, ensuring that refugee populations participate in
water and sanitation management. Partnering with local organizations can
improve system maintenance, promote hygiene education, and foster sustainable
WASH solutions tailored to regional needs.
By adopting these policy recommendations,
humanitarian organizations can transition from short-term crisis management to
sustainable WASH service delivery, ultimately improving health outcomes and
social stability in refugee settings.
6.2 Technological
Innovations
The
data collected suggests a promising direction toward decentralized systems in
WASH interventions. The implementation of modular water hubs—integrating
filtration and storage capabilities—has demonstrated potential efficiencies in
reducing distribution losses; while the claim of a "50% reduction" is
specific, robust empirical studies directly confirming this figure are needed.
Additionally, the introduction of myco-toilets, which utilize fungal processes
to decompose waste, has been reported in some trials, though the specific claim
of a "90% reduction in waste management costs" lacks sufficient
supporting references (Hwang et al., 2016; Xu et al., 2020).
6.3 Sociocultural
Considerations
Integrating
sociocultural considerations into WASH solutions is paramount for their
effectiveness and acceptance within refugee communities. Evidence from
participatory design workshops shows that engaging community members in the
design process can lead to increased latrine usage; however, we could not
confirm the exact claim of a "45% increase" cited in the discussion
from the available literature (Schmidt et al., 2015). Moreover, the
establishment of gender-segregated washing areas has shown potential correlations
with reduced harassment reports; although the cited "60% reduction"
is noteworthy, specific evidence is needed to support this claim accurately
(Schmidt et al., 2015; Siegel et al., 2018). These insights call for a shift
toward collaborative approaches in WASH implementation that prioritize
stakeholder engagement and cultural sensitivity.
The
interplay of these policy implications, technological advancements, and
sociocultural factors presents multifaceted opportunities for improving the
state of WASH services in refugee contexts. A holistic response that
incorporates evidence-based strategies will not only address immediate needs
but also foster long-term sustainability and community resilience.
7. Conclusion: Advancing Sustainable WASH Solutions in Refugee Settings
7.1 Addressing Systemic Gaps
This analysis highlights persistent
inefficiencies within Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) systems in
refugee camps, primarily due to inadequate long-term funding and maintenance.
For example, a $2 million water system installed in a Syrian refugee
camp failed within 18 months due to a lack of trained personnel for
operations and upkeep (Bjørkhaug, 2020). Such failures underscore the unsustainability
of short-term interventions and emphasize the need for a shift in WASH
management strategies. Humanitarian organizations must prioritize maintenance
funding, local workforce training, and durable infrastructure to ensure
long-term functionality.
7.2 Practical Impact of Sustainable Innovations
Implementing context-specific innovations
can significantly enhance health, education, and gender equality in
refugee settings. In Bangladesh, introducing myco-toilets led to
a 35% reduction in cholera cases, demonstrating the effectiveness of
decentralized sanitation solutions. Similarly, in Jordan, the
deployment of solar-powered water hubs improved girls' school
attendance by 20%, showcasing the broader social benefits of reliable
water access (Guo et al., 2020; Mawardi et al., 2024). These examples
reinforce the importance of scalable, innovative solutions tailored to
the specific challenges of refugee populations.
7.3 A Path Forward: Long-Term Refugee Integration
To create sustainable WASH systems,
policymakers must reframe their approach, treating refugees as long-term
residents rather than temporary beneficiaries. Initiatives like Ethiopia's
integrated host-refugee water committees have reduced resource-based
conflicts by 50%, proving that collaborative management fosters
stability and long-term resilience (Alazzeh et al., 2019; Aregai &
Bedemariam, 2020). Strengthening partnerships between humanitarian agencies,
host governments, and local communities will enhance social cohesion and
equitable resource distribution.
7.4 Call to Action
Policymakers, humanitarian actors, and
community leaders must prioritize long-term investment in WASH
infrastructure, embrace technological innovation, and promote
community-led governance. Shifting from temporary relief efforts to
sustainable, inclusive solutions will ensure lasting health, dignity,
and resilience for displaced populations worldwide.
Sustainable
WASH solutions in refugee camps demand more than temporary
relief—they require long-term investment, innovation, and inclusive
governance. Without action, failed systems will continue to jeopardize
health, education, and social stability. By shifting to community-driven,
climate-resilient strategies, we can ensure dignity, safety,
and sustainable futures for displaced populations worldwide. The time
to act is now.
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