The concept of Stranded Assets has been used for nearly 50 years across many sectors, most recently it has been a focus of investment portfolios in light of the possible impacts of climate change. However, to date there has been no in-depth determination of the impact of Stranded Assets for rural water supply, despite international development targets from Rio, through Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and now the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The limiting factor for carrying out such an assessment is the requirement of a full and detailed asset register recording all rural water supplies in a country. The Scottish Government Climate Justice Fund Water Futures Programme, in collaboration with the Government of Malawi, is undertaking a comprehensive asset audit across Malawi, and this paper introduces the concept of Stranded Assets for the rural water supply sector using Malawi as an exemplar. Here, we demonstrate how significant change in the implementation strategy for SDGs compared to the MDGs is needed to reduce the potential for Stranded Assets and meet its ultimate aim.

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Water flows through the heart of Scotland, literally and figuratively. Water is arguably Scotland's chief environmental feature, celebrated in Scottish social life and a critical resource for all sectors of the Scottish economymanufacturing, energy, agriculture, food and drink, even tourism (Figure 37.1). This case study describes Scotland's approach to water resources management through its 'Hydro Nation' agenda, with particular focus on its introduction of competition in its domestic water supply, and its international activity in support of UN Sustainable Development Goals. By allowing more than 30 government licensed providers to serve non-household (including industrial) water accounts, The Scottish Government has managed to reduce industrial water use by 12%, with commensurate reductions in energy and greenhouse gas production. At the same time, Scottish international efforts in Malawi and Tanzania have supported the development of progressive water management policies and sustainable industrial practices there. 37.2 SCOTTISH WATER: ORIGIN AND INNOVATION Production and transmission of clean water and treatment and disposal of wastewater is carried out by Scottish Water, a public corporation accountable to Parliament and its Ministers. In addition, for over a decadesince 2008licensed providers, now numbering more than 30, have supplied water on a retail basis to business customers, including industrial users, the service sector and public sector, and