Water is essential for economic growth, human health, and the environment. Yet governments around the world face significant challenges in managing their water resources effectively. The problems are multiple and complex: billions of people are still without access to safe water and adequate sanitation; competition for water is increasing among the different uses and users; and major investment is required to maintain and improve water infrastructure in OECD and non-OECD countries. This OECD series on water provides policy analysis and guidance on the economic, financial and governance aspects of water resources management. These aspects generally lie at the heart of the water problem and hold the key to unlocking the policy puzzle Contents Part I. Key issues with respect to financing water and sanitation : Chapter 1. What are the benefits of investing in water and sanitation services?;Chapter 2. Current status of water and sanitation services and investment needs; Chapter 3. Where is the money going to come from? Part II. A toolbox to support effective water and sanitation policies : Chapter 4. Introduction to the toolbox; Chapter 5. Strategic financial planning for water and sanitation services at national or regional level: The FEASIBLE tool; Chapter 6. Financial planning tool for water utilities; Chapter 7. Multi-year investment planning tool for municipalities; Chapter 8. Guidelines for performance-based contracts; Chapter 9. Water utility performance indicators (IBNET); Chapter 10. Private sector participation in water infrastructure: Checklist for public action