A Policy Toolbox for Aging Water Infrastructure

Aging infrastructure poses challenges to water and wastewater systems worldwide, yet solutions often focus narrowly on capital projects. We argue for a broader approach, emphasizing the role of classic policy tools—authority, incentives, symbolism, capacity building, and learning. With such tools, governments and organizations can influence management practices and user behavior, thereby extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure. We highlight the need to view infrastructure issues as management and behavior problems, advocating for policy-driven strategies to complement traditional capital solutions.