Strengthening of Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment in Colombia

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

Colombia is rich in freshwater resources, with national water yields six times greater than the global average, and also has abundant groundwater resources. However, water pollution is increasing daily due to population growth and economic activities; requiring constant monitoring and control. Regional fluctuations and unpredictability in access and quality of freshwaters also creates vulnerability and inequality amongst the Colombian people and their livelihoods. It is crucial to take actions to address this problem in order to reduce its impact on natural and social processes, especially on human health. The project “Strengthening water quality monitoring and assessment in Colombia (COFI-Water) is a joint initiative between the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) and the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies of Colombia (IDEAM). The long-term effect produced by the COFI-Water project is strengthened water quality monitoring and assessment in Colombia. To reach this goal, the project aims to develop IDEAM’s capacities to plan, establish and operate water quality monitoring systems at a national level in Colombia. The following results are expected from the project: 1) Improved capacity to manage water quality data (data systems), 2) Strengthened measurement and monitoring practices, 3) Improved capacity of Water Quality Reference Laboratory and 4) Strengthened water quality assessment capacity. The project promotes Finland's development policy priority number IV "Food security, access to water and energy, and sustainable use of natural resources".