Author(s)

S. Mecca, H. Davis, A. Davis

Abstract

The GSAP Microflush toilet system, a locally sourced-locally fabricated toilet that features a macro-organism enhanced aerobic filter-digester and an innovative valve that flushes on just 150 cc of water has proven to be an effective sustainable sanitation solution for developing world tropical communities. This paper examines a sustainable model for bringing the technology to scale by bringing together the building and microfinance functions necessary for the neediest of households to own such a toilet. The plan developed by the non-profit Global Sustainable Aid Project and the S-Lab replaces outright grants with progressive performance based loans to the microfranchise with a model that has appeal for traditional philanthropic and humanitarian aid foundations. The goals and structure of the model and pro forma for alternative scenarios emphasizing the sustainable elements of the approach are described. Early results of the application are presented.

Keywords

rural sanitation, toilets, off-grid, closed systems, open source sanitation, sanitation credit, microcredit, microfranchise, macro-organism enhanced digestion, aerobic digestion, microflush valve