Ecological Sanitation ।।

•  There have been calls for greater adoption of Ecological Sanitation toilets under the Swatchh Bharat Abhiyan. 

•  Ecological Sanitation (Ecosan) is a concept that treats various types of waste generated by humans as a resource, which can be safely collected, treated and reused to prevent pollution of water bodies and the environment. E.g. Ecosan toilets, compost pit, biogas plants, reed-beds for treatment of wastewater. 

•  The underlying aim is to close (local) nutrient and water cycles with as less expenditure on material and energy as possible to contribute to a sustainable development. 

•  The Ecosan is a dry toilet built on a raised platform, listed in the Swachh Bharat Mission’s guidelines as suitable for dry areas with scarce water supply, coastal and flood-prone areas with high water tables, and rocky areas. 

•  But it has very few takers, due to the Swachh Bharat Mission’s focus on pit toilets. 

•  In Ecosan Toilets, human excreta, urine and wash water are separated through specially designed toilet seats unlike the conventional water closets where all these are collected together. 

Challenges Faced 

i.  Lack of Participation 

ii.  Lack of Understanding 

iii.  Defective materials and workmanship 

iv.  Improper maintenance 

#Environment