Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST)

The Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) is a Canadian charity and licensed not-for-profit professional engineering consultancy. The organization focuses on addressing the global need for safe drinking water and sanitation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Mission and Approach

CAWST's mission is to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement sustainable water and sanitation solutions. The organization achieves this through training, consulting, and the transfer of affordable technologies. CAWST works closely with existing organizations, governments, and local groups to enhance their capacities in starting, strengthening, or scaling up water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs.

Activities and Services

CAWST offers a range of professional services, including comprehensive training workshops, open-content resources, and expert consulting services. The training workshops typically span two to five days and cover practical solutions for immediate implementation across various WASH topics. Additionally, CAWST provides resources on household water treatment, safe storage, and biosand filters, which can be accessed globally.

Impact and Partnerships

CAWST operates in partnership with local and international NGOs, government agencies, and UN bodies across 69 countries worldwide. By fostering local ownership and leadership, CAWST empowers communities to address water and sanitation challenges effectively. The organization's approach emphasizes knowledge sharing and capacity building, enabling communities to make informed decisions and take action on their water needs.

The Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology is registered under the Canadian Business Registration Number 863751616RR0001. It is noted for its commitment to empowering global communities through affordable, sustainable solutions in water and sanitation.