Clean-up of military bases and rivers

With local projects in the Philippines to clean up military bases and rivers we support the restoration of water resources that have been contaminated by military and industrial disasters. Toxic chemical waste is polluting the groundwater and affecting human health. As a first step, the degree of pollution will be evaluated to facilitate effective clean-up activities. With focus on the sustainable improvement of public health, the clean-up projects will be accompanied by information and education measures.

Solving water conflicts

Green Cross Switzerland has launched mediation projects to address conflicts related to water shortages in Burkina Faso and in the Middle East.

As an important step of the peace efforts between Israel and Palestine, the mediation projects will analyze the needs and availability of water. This analysis carried out by national and international experts is meant to provide the foundation for Israeli and Palestinian decision-makers.

In the African country of Burkina Faso the focus will be on promoting sustainable farming in the catchment area of the Volta Basis as well as on improving agricultural irrigation infrastructure. Careful and efficient use of water as a resource is aimed at securing long-term food needs and thus prevents any imminent water conflicts.

The Program Water for Life and Peace is being led by Dr. Stephan Robinson, Green Cross Switzerland, and developed and realised in cooperation with the Blacksmith Institute, UNEP, FAO, WHO, the World Bank and local partners. The programme is supported by the Administration of Development and Cooperation (DEZA) of the Swiss Department for External Affairs (EDA), the Global Environment Facility (GEF) as well as by various sponsors.