Goal: To encourage climate resilience through the construction of flood-resilient ECOSAN latrines, collect rainwater and protect freshwater sources in the Peruvian Amazon.

Summary/Activities: The regions of the Peruvian Amazon have some of the worst sanitation coverage rates in South America. Almost 100% of families practice open defecation, and the region and the highest prevalence rates of diarrhoea in Peru, reaching almost twice the national average. In addition, communities experience seasonal flooding from December to May each year, which leads to the faecal contamination of soils and water sources. The majority of people living in the region collect water from unprotected sources, such as streams and rivers. In response to the WASH crisis, UNICEF is rolling out a project which aims to inspire communities to construct, flood resilient latrines. The latrines are raised, above the height of regular floodwaters, with faecal matter being securely contained in a lined and sealed pit. Sawdust or dried leaves are also added to prevent bad odours, encourage composting and discourage insect infestation. The latrines have two chambers, when filling the first it is closed and the other is started. After 8 to 12 months the contents of the cameras can be used as compost. The rooves of the latrines are also used to collect rainwater, which is stored for use during the dryer seasons. Circles of banana trees are also planted around the community, in order to improve drainage and filter dirty water (greywater) from people’s homes. The trees also prevent the formation of puddles, which provide breeding sites for mosquitos.

More info: http://www.wsp.org/sites/wsp.org/files/publications/improved_latrine_options.pdf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nlvFF2nd3Q http://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/pricing-options-ecosan-toilet-toolkit-unicef-sei