Problem:
Human feces is a major pathway for micobial pathogens which cause diarrhea and other diseases which are a major cause of death, particularly of infants. The pathogens are able to survive in the feces when it is kept near body temperature, but even in circumstances where the feces is dried out completely, they may still pose a danger.
Latrines are primitive, consisting of a hole dug in the ground, and a small building or curtain to provide a degree of privacy. When the hole fills with excrement, a new hole is dug nearby. Alternatively, residents just walk out to an open field. Open air pits can foul nearby water sources, have bad odors, attract flies, and provide a breeding ground for parasitic worm eggs.
Potential Solution 1:
In areas where a pit can be excavated, an in–ground biodigester, could provide a sanitary solution to the processing of human waste.
Potential Solution 2:
In ground solutions may not be feasible in rocky terrains so systems that do not require a pit to be dug may provide potential sanitary latrine solutions. In addition to safely processing human waste, some systems provide a source of methane gas for cooking, which further reduces the need for firewood.
Potential Solution 3:
Low tech, low cost solution with drawbacks of higher maintenance and odor and flies (which can be mitigated).
Potential Solution 4:
INTEGRATED WATER STORAGE / SANITARY TOILET SOLUTIONS
Although more expensive than a composting toilet system, this approach uses readily available commercial components that requires minimal maintenance. The water storage system and waste water system can be installed as separate, functional components, depending on time and availability of funding.
Advantages and Benefits:
- Greatly reduces the likelihood of the introduction of contaminants to clean water.
- Substantially improves family health and comfort.
- Reduces likelihood of nearby water sources being contaminated by sewage.
- Components available in most metropolitan areas.
- Reduces incidence of cholera and dysentary.