Abstract
The WHO Framework for Safe Drinking-water has been developed from many years of field work and evidence of the challenges faced in the provision of safe drinking-water supply. However, there has been no analysis of the potential of the WHO Framework to improve drinking-water safety in a small island environment. There is very limited literature on the challenges of drinking-water management for small islands. No methodology has been found with which to conduct an integrated analysis of all the influencing factors. In order to carry out the research, Islands with a broad range of characteristics in a relatively unstudied region were chosen to add to the existing knowledge of the challenges experienced by small islands. An audit of the WHO Framework was then carried out to analyse the potential strategic position it may have in the small island environment to improve drinking-water safety. The case-studies have revealed that there are many challenges to drinking-water safety for small islands that have not been previously recorded in the available literature and cover aspects of Institutional Framework, Catchment Management, Treatment, Distribution and Consumer. There is considerable opportunity to improve drinking-water safety for small islands with implementation of the WHO Framework. However expert focus groups recognize that some special considerations, not included in the existing Framework may be required to ensure ongoing, sustainable, safe drinking-water supplies in small community environments such as small islands. Substantial challenges identified for small islands result from the existing Institutional Frameworks, which has also been verified focus groups. However analysis of the evidence has revealed that there is little guidance available in the WHO Framework relating to Institutional Frameworks. The majority of threats to the success of the improvements in drinking-water safety that can be gained from implementation of the WHO Framework arise from lack of support in this area.