Work

Modular decentralized water system associated with improved child health and increased in-home water use in remote Alaska Native communities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In this paper, we report our findings focused on how the Miniature Portable Alternative Sanitation System (Mini-PASS) has affected the health of children 12 years old and younger, changes to water hauling and usage that occurred, and hygiene practices. Our findings demonstrate that a simple plumbing system such as the Mini-PASS handwashing station can help decrease the reuse of water in a wash basin, which ultimately contributes to increased positive health outcomes for households. Our evaluation will inform the broader community about the health benefits of an affordable, responsive, decentralized water system solution for communities that lack piped water and sewer.

Source: Journal of Water and Health

DOI: 10.2166/wh.2025.292

Authors: Amanda Hansen, Gretchen Day, Marla Wehrli, Laura Eichelberger

Institution: Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

Language: English

Topic: Child Nutrition and Water Access

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation