In many African countries sanitation systems are in crisis, affecting the well-being of many. Over the years existing systems have come under increasing pressure through population growth. Conventional systems are not able to cope with rising demand. Ecological sanitation (EcoSan) could prove a viable alternative system.

Research by the Water and Sanitation Program draws on the experience of various EcoSan projects in eastern and southern Africa. The study explores the progress and impact of selected projects, identifying different lessons that can be learnt.

Several governments have begun to explore the potential of EcoSan to improve the provision of sanitation services. Well managed EcoSan can also provide much needed nutrients to support agricultural activity. Activities can range from simply planting trees and food plants on filled up toilet pits to composting human excreta and re-using the products for manure in agriculture.  Research into existing projects found that:

• Heavily subsidised projects with a top-down approach were not sustainable in the long run and did not encourage ownership among users.
• Many families are unaware of the health and agricultural benefits. However, successful projects have led to increased demand in the community.
• Cultural norms can cause strong negative sentiments towards reusing excreta.
• Inappropriate technologies can result in poor handling of sanitation systems leading to hygiene problems.

Sanitation systems in Africa face a big challenge of limited coverage and increasing demand. Under some circumstances ecological sanitation systems could prove to be a viable alternative approach. Pilot projects have realised only some of the potential benefits so far. Very few projects have reached the point where local communities copy EcoSan toilets using their own resources. Generally, projects need to be more carefully designed to fit the local context with regard to technology, culture and sense of ownership. To overcome some of these challenges the report recommends:

• Projects need to be carefully and properly designed, including using subsidies sparingly.
• Because of cultural sentiments, the idea of EcoSan, particularly the reuse of excreta, requires sensitive promotion.
• Technologies need to be appropriate within the local context and should draw on locally available materials.
• User education needs explain the benefits of EcoSan as well as the correct use and risks of such systems.

Source(s):
‘A review of EcoSan Experience in Eastern and Southern Africa’, Water and Sanitation Program – Africa Field Note by Barry Jackson, January 2005 Full document.

id21 Research Highlight: 2 December 2005

Further Information:
Water and Sanitation Program – Africa
World Bank
Hill Park Building
Upper Hill Road
PO Box 30577
Nairobi
Kenya

Tel: +254 20 322 6306
Fax: +254 20 322 6386
Contact the contributor: wspaf@worldbank.org

Water and Sanitation Program - Africa

Other related links:
'Marketing water and sanitation to poor people'

Ecological Sanitation Research website

The Water Page - ecological sanitaiton website

Sanitation Connection

UNDP ecological sanitation page