Quantifying Progress Made in Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 in Chile: A Holistic and Local Approach

Abstract

The implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) in Chile, a middle-income country, has only been partially measured, mainly due to the lack of the data required to quantify all indicators related to this goal. Quantifying the progress made in achieving SDG 6 is particularly relevant in countries such as Chile, which is currently facing major drought and water management issues. This research aims to quantify all indicators in SDG 6 based on a holistic and local approach. In doing so, a three-step process is proposed: a critical analysis of SDG 6 indicators using the specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-bound (SMART) indicators framework, a new definition proposal for indicators when necessary, and lastly, a composite index capable of reflecting the progress made toward achieving SDG 6. The results show that none of the targets in SDG 6 have been achieved in Chile. The main challenges the country faces are related to integrated water resource management, transboundary arrangements, and community participation in water management. Conversely, Chile’s performance in water supply and sanitation services is closer to the target. This research contributes a group of specific indicators for Chile, which provide an inexpensive and pragmatic way to measure the progress made in achieving SDG 6.