A sanitation system template defines a class of sanitation systems with similar characteristics. Each sanitation system can be assigned to one unique template.

System templates help to diversify the options that are considered in planning. But not all the templates do equally make sense in all cases and the number of options should be limited not to overwhelm stakeholders. Generally, only three to a maximum of eight systems can be evaluated in detail. To make sure that conflicts of interest are made visible in this evaluation and multi-stakeholder negotiations can take place, the discussed sanitation systems should be all from different templates. By default, SaniChoice selects systems from the templates that in average have the highest appropriateness. But you can also prioritise and/or exclude system templates that are not relevant in your case. The template filter helps you to find the preferred or undesired systems. It uses technical characteristics as well as the level of centralisation.

 

Technical characteristics

  • Dry systems use no flushing water. Wet systems are based on cistern or pour-flush toilets and the management of blackwater.
  • Biofuel systems result in the production of biofuel in the form of pellets, briquettes, or biogas.
  • Biomass systems produce soil conditioner such as compost, pit humus, dried faeces or sludge.
  • If urine is collected separately, it can be reused for fertilizer production.

 

Level of centralization

There are three level of centralisation: onsite, decentralised and offsite (centralised) systems. Additionally, hybrid systems with both onsite storage and treatment and offsite treatment are possible.

Find more detailed definitions of the characteristics and the level of centralization in the System Templates.