Final answer:
Improved sanitation from government investment in sewage infrastructure promotes economic growth by enhancing public health, increasing productivity, and providing a high economic return on investment. It also supports sustainable development and pollution reduction, leading to mutual benefits for high-income and low-income countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effects of government spending on proper sewage infrastructure, resulting in improved sanitation for crowded cities in poor countries, can significantly promote economic growth. Improved sanitation systems lead to enhanced public health by reducing the incidence of diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. This, in turn, decreases healthcare costs and increases productivity as healthier individuals can contribute more effectively to the workforce. Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) contends that every US dollar invested in water and sanitation systems can yield an average global economic return of 5.5 US dollars, bolstering the argument for such investments.
Additionally, proper sewage systems support sustainable development by mitigating pollution. Modern pollution-control technology can be transferred to low-income countries, which not only assists in the immediate improvement of living conditions but also ensures a more sustainable and economically viable future. By addressing sanitation issues, low-income countries can create a more stable and attractive environment for investments, leading to economic diversification and growth.
Furthermore, high-income countries can also benefit from investing in pollution reduction in low-income countries. This global cooperation leads to mutual benefits, including reduced global health risks, potential markets for green technologies, and an overall healthier global economy.