Actions in this area include projects to expand access to electricity, water and sanitation to marginal communities, and projects to upgrade urban slums and combat crime and violence. Social Investment Funds are a particularly effective tool to improve basic infrastructure for the poor and they have been implemented successfully in many countries in the region. The Social Development Division in the Bank has undertaken a number of special initiatives to improve urban infrastructure. The Environment and Natural Resources Division has also implemented important initiatives to improve the living conditions of the poorest inhabitants in the region.