Governing wastewater systems during crisis and war

About the project

Sweden’s wastewater and sanitation systems are critical infrastructure that must continue to function during crises, heightened preparedness and armed conflict. However, current regulations, governance structures and decision-making processes are largely designed for normal conditions. This can create uncertainty about what actions are possible and who is responsible when society is exposed to extreme stress.

The project explores how governance, policy and responsibilities related to wastewater and sanitation management can be improved to strengthen Sweden’s preparedness. By combining research, international experience and practical knowledge from municipalities, authorities and water utilities, the project identifies barriers in current governance arrangements and opportunities to build a more resilient water and wastewater sector.

From international experience to Swedish solutions

The project draws on lessons from crises, armed conflicts and extreme weather events where wastewater and sanitation systems have been placed under severe pressure. Experiences from, among others, Ukraine and major flooding events in Europe are used to understand how similar situations could affect Swedish water and wastewater systems and what governance challenges may arise.

Through policy labs, researchers, municipalities, authorities and water sector stakeholders come together to explore future crisis and war scenarios. Together, they analyse what decisions may need to be made, how responsibilities can be allocated and what policy or regulatory changes may be required to maintain essential sanitation services, environmental protection and key societal functions.

Benefits for municipalities, water utilities and authorities

The project provides municipalities, water utilities and public authorities with a stronger basis for preparedness planning and decision-making. By clarifying roles, responsibilities and operational flexibility during extraordinary events, organisations can improve their ability to manage crises and maintain essential public services.

The results will be translated into practical recommendations for governance, coordination and legal preparedness. The aim is to contribute to a more robust and resilient water and wastewater sector that protects public health, the environment and critical societal functions, even under severe conditions.

Collaboration for enhanced preparedness

The project is carried out by Stockholm University, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, The Gothenburg Region and Svenskt Vatten (the Swedish Water & Wastewater Association). By combining research expertise, practical water sector knowledge and experience in crisis preparedness, the project creates the conditions needed to develop solutions that are scientifically robust, practically applicable and relevant for municipalities, authorities and water utilities across Sweden.

The coordinator at Stockholm University is Dr. Karina Shyrokykh. E-mail karina.shyrokykh@ekohist.su.se