The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the International Water Assn. (IWA) have jointly developed AquaRating, which establishes the international standard for assessing water and sanitation services provision. AquaRating offers a comprehensive, impartial and credible evaluation of the utilities’ performance and best management practices.
AquaRating assesses water and sanitation services providers according to three dimensions: performance indicators, best practices and information quality. The rating system gives a detailed evaluation of 112 elements across eight key areas and validates information through an independent auditing process, enhancing accountability and transparency. As a standard, AquaRating sets the baseline for utilities to monitor their performance and plan for improvements.
IDB has licensed AquaRating to the IWA to set up the first rating agency for water and sanitation services providers. The rating system has already been piloted in thirteen utilities in nine countries in Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean. A worldwide market introduction is planned for 2015.
“The launch of AquaRating establishes a new global standard for water and sanitation services provision,” said Ger Bergkamp, IWA executive director. “It will make a significant contribution to improving utility performance, vital to delivering more effective and efficient services, and allowing them to respond to ever-increasing water pressures.”
“AquaRating gives water and sanitation services providers a roadmap to anticipate future challenges," said Sergio Campos, Water and Sanitation Div. chief at the IDB. “The rating system allows for better planning and decision making processes for the utilities’ management to achieve sustainable and efficient outcomes. AquaRating helps water and sanitation services providers become more resilient. Empowering water and sanitation utilities is a crucial step towards ensuring water and sanitation for all.”
Source: International Water Assn.
