Work

Microfranchising rural sanitation: a sustainable development model for a scale-up of a sustainable technology

Year: 2015

Type: conference-paper

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.

Source: WIT transactions on ecology and the environment

DOI: 10.2495/ws150151

Authors: S. Mecca, H. Davis, A. Davis

Institutions: Providence College, New York University, Cooper Union

Language: English

Topic: Innovation and Socioeconomic Development

Subfield: Business and International Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation