Research Brief
P028
Water Resources Management
AB
Aqu'aBridge Research Team
Jan 23, 2025 · 6 min read
Executive Summary
Key Finding: Conventional affordability ratios (tariff/income < 3%)
mask issues faced by vulnerable families. Brazil case study shows
6-dimension framework needed for accurate assessment.
Policy Takeaway: 70% of Brazil's population served by state-owned
providers needs targeted affordability analysis beyond simple ratios.
The 6-Dimension Framework (P028)
| Dimension |
Target |
Status Check |
| 1. Coverage Rates |
% with piped water |
≥70% = Good |
| 2. Conventional Affordability |
Tariff/Income < 3% |
Pass/Fail |
| 3. Poverty Conditions |
Community poverty % |
Match low-income % |
| 4. Poor Household Access |
Lifeline coverage % |
≥ Low-income % |
| 5. Social Programs |
% eligible for subsidies |
≥70% of poor |
| 6. Connection Fees |
Fee/Income < 5% |
Pass/Fail |
Brazil Case Study Results
⚠️ Key Finding: Conventional 3% ratio showed affordability, but 6-dimension
analysis revealed low access to social programs and high connection fee burden.
- 35% of households = low-income (vs. 35% target ✅)
- But only 25% had access to social tariffs ⚠️
- Connection fees = 6.2% of income (exceeds 5% threshold ⚠️)
Brazil Case Study Results
⚠️ Key Finding: Conventional 3% ratio showed affordability, but 6-dimension
analysis revealed low access to social programs and high connection fee burden.
- 35% of households = low-income (vs. 35% target ✅)
- But only 25% had access to social tariffs ⚠️
- Connection fees = 6.2% of income (exceeds 5% threshold ⚠️)
Reference: Fagundes, T.S., Marques, R.C. & Malheiros, T.F. (2025).
A Comprehensive Framework for Water Affordability Analysis.
Water Resources Management, 39:2527–2549.
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