Our Approach
A catalyst for building water, sanitation, agriculture, and environmentally sound solutions.
Who We Are
A Catalyst for Local Solutions
Earth & Water is a catalyst organization. We work with capable local partners to bring to life practical drinking-water, sanitation, hygiene, and agriculture solutions that can stand on their own—improving daily life in communities, households, schools, clinics, and markets.
What We Believe
Lasting change is local. The simplest solution that works is the best one. Sustainability and dignity come from solutions people can rely on and afford.
Where We Focus
We prioritize regions where dependable water and productive farming will unlock the biggest gains in health, time, and income.
Where We Work
We work wherever simple, repairable, financially sound solutions create durable impact—rural, peri-urban, or urban.
Process
Our Catalyst Model
Your support helps Earth & Water start, support, and scale solutions with proven local doers. We keep the model flexible and context-driven—because the right answer in one place isn’t always the right answer in the next.
1. Start
Seed funding to kick off high-potential WASH and agriculture initiatives with strong local partners.
2. Support
Program design, light training, and practical tools so operators run solutions well and people can access what they need nearby.
3. Scale
Follow-on funding for models that prove reliable and affordable, reaching more people without requiring the same donations again and again.
THE PROBLEM
Too much aid funds the same problem twice
A system is built, celebrated, then breaks—and needs funding again. The issue isn’t only starting a solution; it’s keeping it working without constant rescue.
OUR SOLUTION
Earth & Water ends that loop
We put sustainability and financial viability at the center. Solutions are operated by professionals, everyday costs are covered locally, and essential supplies are available at the last mile.
Core Focus
Our Design Principles
Lasting impact doesn’t happen by accident. Our work is guided by these four core principles that ensure every solution we support is practical, locally-owned, and built to endure.
Financial Viability
Clear plan from day one for who pays for what, when.
Local Operation & Supply
Ensures accountability and avoids giveaway logistics.
Right-Sized & Repairable
Avoids over-engineering; focuses on what can be fixed locally.
Outcome-Driven
Success is reliability, affordability, and improved livelihoods.