Economic and Environmental Costs of Untreated Wastewater

This report details the economic, environmental, and human costs associated with untreated domestic wastewater. It is a pilot study conducted by Economist Impact for the Back to Blue initiative, supported by the Nippon Foundation and the Ocean Sewage Alliance. The report aims to highlight the urgent need for countries to address the discharge of inadequately treated wastewater. It utilizes a model to estimate the economic losses experienced by five countries—Brazil, India, Kenya, the Philippines, and the UK—due to wastewater pollution. The analysis reveals significant economic impacts on health, agriculture, and fisheries, emphasizing that untreated wastewater leads to reduced economic growth and job opportunities. The report also discusses the indirect effects on tourism and the long-term consequences of inaction. It identifies social inequities in the burden of wastewater pollution, particularly affecting marginalized communities. The findings underscore the necessity for improved water and sanitation systems to mitigate these challenges and promote better health outcomes.