Application of the City Blueprint Approach to assess the challenges of water management and governance in Quito (Ecuador)

Poor wastewater treatment and long-term drinking water security pose significant challenges to Quito's urban water management, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and economic pressures. A study applying the City Blueprint Approach—comprising three assessment frameworks (Trends and Pressure Framework, City Blueprint Framework, and Governance Capacity Framework)—revealed that stakeholder cooperation, implementing capacity, and citizens' awareness are critical for addressing these issues. The analysis also highlighted the need for greater emphasis on transparency, accountability, and participation principles to enhance governance capacity. This approach serves as an affordable tool for cities aiming to strategically plan their sustainable development goals.

Schreurs, E., Koop, S., & van Leeuwen, K. (2017). Application of the City Blueprint Approach to assess the challenges of water management and governance in Quito (Ecuador). Environment, Development and Sustainability, 20(2), 509–525. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-017-9916-x