Argentina’s roadmap for sustainable water management
In Argentina, a country of 44 million people, 8.2 million lack access to drinking water and 20 million to sanitation. Investment needs to cover this access gap are estimated at US$21 billion. Waste water treatment is estimated at 20%. Most water utilities do not cover its operational costs and struggle to provide quality services. The country has been recently struck by extreme weather events that showcase the need for better water resources management. To tackle these challenges, the new administration developed the country’s first National Water Plan. The plan is based on four pillars: i) access to water and sanitation, ii) water and food; iii) water and energy, and iv) adaptation to extreme weather events. The Plan also advances a new regulatory framework that will help water utilities improve their financial situation. The new authorities are also promoting innovation and private sector participation that will help overcome these challenges. By creating incentives for more efficient water use, the circular economy model can certainly contribute to achieving the Plan. This showcase will highlight the approach Argentina is following to overcome its sector challenges and the role a circular economy model will play in the process.
Programme
16:00 Welcome and introduction by Moderator
Sebastian Paz, Presidente Aguas de Santiago
16:05 Opening Speech
Gustavo Zlauvinen, National Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs of Argentina
16:10 How is Argentina tackling its sector challenges? The importance of having a roadmap. Argentina’s Water and Sanitation National Plan
Pablo Bereciartua, National Undersecretary for Water Resources
16:20 Wastewater treatment in Buenos Aires: Argentina’s biggest city
José Luis Inglese, AySA
16:35 Mendoza: Water Resources Management in Argentina’s wine mecca. Wastewater reuse for irrigation purposes
Ricardo Gabrielli, AIDIS
16:50 Call for Action: The role of the private sector. Water and Sanitation PPPs
Esteban Isasmendi, Aguas del Norte
17:05 Q&A
17:25 Summary
17:30 Close of session