In 2017, the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) published the first global estimate for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicator 6.2.1 – the proportion of the population using safely managed sanitation services. Methods for calculating SDG indicator 6.2.1 require data on the collection, transport and treatment of fecal sludge from non-sewered sanitation technologies. Such data is currently not accessible as no standard data collection and management strategies exist.

Why Measuring Matters

The JMP publishes estimates for SDG indicator 6.2.1 every two years. Without a significant increase in structured data on faecal sludge management services, low and lower-middle income countries will continue to lack estimates for this indicator. If an indicator is perceived un-measurable, the entire target 6.2 may be considered unrealistic and lose credibility and investment.