Sanitation technology and user perceptions

摘要

Research in South Africa showed that in most cases the sanitation technology implemented in rural andperi-urban areas seemed to be adequate in providing sanitation services, but that these technologies areunder strain due to their incorrect use, misuseon-use and lack of proper maintenance, therefore placingthe sustainability of these sanitation systems in question. Even if the technology was designed and builtwell, the use of the technology and its acceptance by the user proved to be the most critical elements - atechnology is only as good as its user. Spot check assessments in South Africa concluded that watersector services and projects should not be viewed one-dimensionally, but holistically. The interactionbetween, and integration of, technical aspects and social dynamics are the cornerstones for the long-termoperation of facilities and the sustainability of services delivery. This paper shows some results of spotcheck assessments and will draw the attention to the user issues and their impact on providingsustainable sanitation services in addressing the sanitation backlogs in South Africa.