CRIteRIA FoR suCCess

toilet solutions

To establish a sustainable sanitation system, where water resources and nutrients are re-used, conventional wastewater management needs to be revolutionised. There is a wide range of ecological sanitation options out there, but some links are often missing in order to close the loop. For example, they may require more space than what is available, and there might be different socio-cultural challenges related to the implementation of such technologies.

traditional pit latrine

Superstructure for privacy and a hole or seat over a pit where excreta is disposed. Limitations: Problems with smell, flies & mosquitos. Has a tendency to be left when full. contaminates ground when not sealed. Not possible to connect to sewer line. Not possible with an offset system. Advantages: No need for water Easy to build and use

Ventilated improved pit latrine (V.I.P.)

Same as traditional pit latrine, but with a ventilation pipe connected to the pit. Limitations: Same as traditional pit latrine, except the smell, flies and mosquitos. Advantages: Pipe eliminates smells and traps flies Same as traditional pit latrine during our research we looked into a wide range of technologies to identify suitable solutions for Kampala. Because of the mentioned missing links, lack of space and transient population, the ecological solutions are often challenging to implement, but in the long run they should be the first choice. in the end we identified the following technologies as the most relevant or applicable for low-income settlements in Kampala.

Pour flush latrine

An alternative to water borne toilet. Connected to septic tank, sewer line or pit. Limitations: Requires water and manual pouring can easily be clogged with solid waste Advantages: Requires less water than water borne can be connected to sewer Water trap eliminates smell Easy to empty

Double-pit latrine

Two pits connected to the pan and converde at an inspection chamber forming a “Y”. Limitations: Takes up slightly more space Advantages: in case of high water table, it might be better to dig two shallow pipes With two years resting time all pathogens are dead, so waste is removed safely

Water borne toilet

Connected to sewer or septic tank. Limitations: is dependent on large amounts of water Septic tank requires periodical emptying Advantages: No flies or smell Safe and pleasant to use

Ecosan: Bio gas / Urine diversion dry toilet (UDDt)

Returns nutrients from urnie and faeces insted of disposal. Limitations: Requires a lot of space Needs extensive management Needs education and training cultural challenges for reuse of compost Requires skilled labour for construction Advantages: Environmentally friendly Possibility of extra benefit from compost 12