On-site sanitation challenges tackled through research

Abstract

Basic sanitation The latest statistics reveal that at least 6,5% of South Africa’s population of 48 million people make use of onsite sanitation systems such as ventilated improved pit (VIP) toilets. Municipalities, who are now responsible for providing basic services, are increasingly rolling out these on-site sanitation systems, especially in rural areas. It is expected that in meeting the national sanitation target of 2010, it is expected that more than three million VIPs will be built. It is reported that on-site dry sanitation technologies are able to provide long-term, safe and dignified sanitation to users. While VIPs are considered an appropriate basic sanitation technology choice, their lifespan is decidedly short term, with pits filling up after only a few years of use. This means that either the pit needs to be emptied or a new pit has to be dug. Compounding this situation is the fact that VIP superstructure construction as proposed by guidelines offer no easy access to the pit other than through the pedestal.

Authors

Categories