Rural Vitalization – Rural Wastewater Treatment and Environmental Management
People’s Republic of China, 2020 – 2025
Client: Asian Development Bank
Role: Technical Assistance Team
Project Background and Objectives
The Rural Vitalization – Rural Wastewater Treatment and Environmental Management technical assistance supports the People’s Republic of China in improving rural living environments through innovation in sanitation, wastewater treatment, and solid waste management (SWM) systems. The assignment is implemented under an ADB Knowledge and Support Technical Assistance (KSPA) and aims to translate good practices into practical, scalable solutions for rural areas.
The technical assistance focuses on strengthening technical standards, improving access to knowledge, and supporting preparation of rural vitalization investment projects.
SIET’s Role and Services
SIET provides a multidisciplinary technical assistance team, including wastewater treatment specialists, a project management specialist, a financial analyst, and an information and communications technology (ICT) specialist. Key activities include:
- Development of national practical guidelines for rural sanitation, wastewater treatment, and solid waste management
- Preparation of online guidance materials and publicly accessible information platforms for rural environmental management practitioners
- Support for preparation of rural vitalization and environmental improvement projects in the PRC
- Organization and delivery of workshops and training sessions on rural sanitation, wastewater management, and rural vitalization
Knowledge Platform and Innovation
A key output of the assignment is the development of an open-source online practice guideline for onsite wastewater management, providing technical references, case studies, and practical tools for rural wastewater practitioners. The platform enhances knowledge dissemination, supports capacity building, and promotes consistent application of good practices nationwide.
Outcomes and Value Added
The technical assistance strengthens institutional and technical capacity for rural environmental management by combining practical guidelines, digital knowledge tools, and hands-on training. SIET’s work supports scalable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable solutions that contribute to long-term rural vitalization and improved living conditions.