Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology

Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) is a Canadian non‑profit organization and licensed engineering consultancy focused on capacity building in water, sanitation and hygiene in low‑ and middle‑income countries. It promotes affordable, appropriate technologies, training, consulting, and knowledge transfer to local organizations.^[1] CAWST is based in Calgary, Canada.

History

CAWST was founded in 2001 by Camille Dow Baker and Dr. David Manz from Baker's basement with the motivation to take engineering knowledge for water and sanitation to communities in need.^[2][3] CAWST was established with the aim of addressing the lack of engineering expertise in the water and sanitation sector by providing education, technical training, and consulting services to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies working in low- and middle-income countries. Its model emphasizes long-term capacity building through training and knowledge transfer, rather than the direct installation of infrastructure. CAWST's approach gained international recognition in 2005 when its co-founder, Camille Dow Baker, presented the organization's methodology at a World Health Organization (WHO) International Symposium, in her capacity as a member of the WHO Implementation Working Group within the International Network to Promote Household Drinking Water and Safe Storage.^[4][5]

In 2010, CAWST received the Special Prize from the Fonds Suez Environnement Initiatives Institut de France, an award honouring innovative contributions to sanitation, waste, and water management in developing countries.^[6] CAWST has received long-standing backing from Canadian businessman and philanthropist David P. O'Brien, who became a supporter after being introduced to the organization's mission and impact by Camille Dow Baker.^[7]

By 2014, the CAWST had contributed to improved access to water or sanitation for approximately 9.3 million people, through its support of 793 implementing organizations operating across 68 countries.^[8][9] CAWST is an active member of the Global Handwashing Partnership.^[10]

In 2015, Camille Dow Baker received the Canadian Medical Association Medal of Honour in recognition of her work in water and sanitation through CAWST.^[11]