Goal: To ensure access to climate resilient toilets in schools, dormitories and kindergartens.

Summary/Activities: According to the Mongolia Second Assessment Report on Climate Change – 2014, temperatures in Mongolia have increased by an average of 2° C from 1940 to 2013 as a result of climate change. But these increasing temperatures are not necessarily making the winters warmer. Climate change is increasing the variability of temperatures and the frequency of the uniquely Mongolian weather phenomenon known as the dzud, which, every few years, creates an extremely dry summer followed by an extremely cold winter, with heavy snowfall. In the winter, extremely cold temperatures, which can drop to -40° C, prevent children from walking the full distance to use outdoor latrines. This contributes to open defecation in school and dormitory yards, which undermines both children’s health and dignity. To improve access to WASH in schools, dormitories and kindergartens, UNICEF Mongolia has developed a low-cost and high-quality innovative WASH facility in a container. The containers are equipped with flushing toilets, urinals, wash basins and a shower room and each can serve 30 to 60 students. They can easily be connected to buildings and existing water supply and sewage systems, without the need for major renovation work. The container has an integrated ventilation system, electric connections and insulated walls and ceilings to protect the facilities from freezing temperatures and heat loss. The containers, introduced in 2014 and installed in the Khuvsgul province and the Nalaikh district, have served around 1,400 children so far, with private sector companies and international already eager to replicate them. In schools, the containers have had a positive effect on children’s hygiene and behavioural outcomes, making it easier for children to use the toilets and wash their hands.

More info: https://www.unicef.org/wash/waterandclimate/ https://www.unicef.org/evaldatabase/index_89759.html