Transforming Lives Through Shared Sanitation: A Conversation with Ed Mitchell

In a special Christmas edition of the Exec Exchange podcast, host Piers Clark sits down with Ed Mitchell, the Chief Executive of Water and Sanitation for Urban Populations (WSUP). As the discussion unfolds, Ed shares invaluable insights into the world of water and sanitation, the progress toward global development goals, and the crucial impact of shared sanitation on child health.

A Journey to WSUP

Ed Mitchell’s journey is a fascinating tale of dedication and passion for sustainable development. With over 35 years of experience, he has worked across various sectors, including British water companies, the environment agency, and government roles. His deep-seated interest in sustainable and international development was kindled during his undergraduate years, notably through his experience on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Eventually, his passions led him to his current role as the CEO of WSUP.

Understanding WSUP’s Mission

WSUP, short for Water and Sanitation for Urban Populations, lives up to its name. The organization focuses on providing inclusive and resilient urban water and sanitation systems. By celebrating its 20th anniversary, WSUP has reached over 43 million people through its seven long-term programs in Africa and South Asia. Its unique model raises funds from governments, companies, and philanthropists, ensuring efficient deployment to expand services into fast-growing, low-income communities.

The Important Role of Funding

A key issue for any not-for-profit company is how effectively funding is utilized. While WSUP operates as a not-for-profit, its model emphasizes cost efficiency. Instead of individual fundraising, WSUP focuses on securing large-scale funding from entities interested in the water sector, keeping fundraising costs as low as 2-3%.

The Impact of Shared Sanitation

The podcast delves into the significance of shared sanitation on child development. Historically, global goals have aimed for household-level sanitation, with shared facilities overlooked. However, shared sanitation can be a game-changer, especially in densely populated urban areas with logistical challenges. Ed Mitchell emphasizes that shared sanitation not only addresses practical constraints but also serves as an affordable, effective solution for improving sanitation quality.

Groundbreaking Research: MAP-San Project

Ed highlights the MAP-San project in Maputo, Mozambique, where research conducted by the University of North Carolina and the London School of Hygiene showed a remarkable 31% reduction in stunting among children with access to improved shared sanitation facilities. This finding is groundbreaking, demonstrating the potential for shared sanitation to mirror the developmental benefits of individual household facilities.

Funding Challenges and Future Directions

While the results are promising, funding cuts pose challenges. As Ed notes, development aid for water and sanitation is shrinking globally. WSUP is responding by diversifying its funding strategy, exploring opportunities linked to climate change and child health.

Driving Resilience

The podcast concludes on the theme of personal resilience. For Ed, the opportunity to witness firsthand the positive effects of WSUP’s work is both motivating and grounding. His dedication and optimism drive his mission to continue making a difference, even amidst funding uncertainties.

Conclusion

Ed Mitchell’s conversation with Piers Clark provides profound insights into the transformative power of shared sanitation. As WSUP continues its mission, the shared commitment to improving child development and public health stands as a testament to the potential of international collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges.