3 Shared toilet models appropriate to the local context 3.2 Strategies for improving existing facilities and new projects
Both the physical facilities and the management models of shared sanitation service. In practice, the three most common shared toilet types can be implemented across a range of settings or be hybridized between them. For example, a cubicle shared between specific households can be integated into a community toilet block, and a community toilet model can be implemented in a public setting (see Cardone et al, 2018).
Improve and optimize existing assets Lower fees / encourage use Accountability / Enable regular performance review
Nonetheless, the focus in the planning, implementation and upkeep of these toilet models is in how they encourage use. Therefore, failure of shared toilets can be reduced, and thus curb open defecation or unsafe sanitation practices.
Gain recognition by monitoring protocols / incentivize investment Supporting users (as well as requiring support from users)
Considering the dense and unplanned condition of peri-urban settlements, the priority should be to improve existing facilties. If new facilties are necesssary, these strategies are just as useful.
Resource • The World Bank Group's Shared and Public Toilets: Championing Delivery Models That Work (Cardone et al., 2018) is an extensive guide to key considerations in providing shared toilets to needy urban and peri-urban areas.
The document features checklists, resources and case studies for understanding the local sanitation market, identifying locations for intervention, addressing user needs, and ensuring effective governance.
Shared household toilets Is it physically possible to provide a shared toilet model for multiple housholds? N Ensure there is sufficient land for separate male and female facilities and drainage. Otherwise, consider impermanent/ mobile facilities.
Y
Is it possible to provide a bathing / laundry area for tenants? N May limit tenant willingness to pay for toilet.
Explore opportunities to record data on performance to inform planning for enforced expansion of shared household toilets
Y Can the toilet serve ≤5 families or ≤20 people? N There is significant risk that the toilet(s) will become undermaintained. Consider community toilets instead.
Y
Are tenants willing to pay more in rent for a shared household toilet and contribute to cleaning/maintenance?
Y
N Lower potential for repaying loans or offsetting lost rent from converted house unit.
Fig. 2 Decisions and alternatives for shared household toilet models. (Source: [Adapted from] : Cardone et al., 2018)
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Are finance mechanisms available to support investment in the toilet(s)? N Focus efforts first on strengthening municipal governance to support landlords as service providers
