SISS receives IDB award for achievements in sanitation - Chile

Chile's sanitation service authority SISS has received an award from IDB for the success of its reforms and water management program, which have been implemented over the last decade, the country's public works ministry (MOP) reported in a release.

Some of the achievements in the Chilean sanitation sector in recent years include reaching 99.8% potable water coverage; 95.3% sewage coverage; increasing wastewater treatment coverage from 16.7% in 1998 to 82.6% in 2008 (this is expected to reach 98% in 2011); the cleanup of the country's coastline and beaches; implementing fresh water irrigation; and reducing infant mortality.

Public works minister Sergio Bitar praised the progress made by the Chilean state since the late 90s, and emphasized the role of the SISS which regulates and supervises potable water, sewage and wastewater treatment with a firm hand.

The award was delivered by IDB president Luis Alberto Moreno and the president of the Femsa foundation, José Antonio Fernández to SISS head Magaly Espinosa in Mexico city on November 16.

Femsa supports initiatives for the conservation and sustainable use of water in Latin America and the Caribbean.

A project implemented in Brazil to integrate waste recyclers was the runner-up for the award.

Business News Americas

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