Fuel for Innovation
To ensure the best possible foundations for our innovations, we’re working to harness and develop the best science and technology available.
Through extensive literature and patent reviews, we identified the latest scientific advances from a variety of fields that could improve pit latrine performance.
From this basis, we selected the most promising technologies to take forward in our innovation process and developed a scientific research agenda to fill in the gaps in current understanding.
Applying Existing Technology
We reviewed the latest developments in science and technology which could help tackle the problem of pit latrine filling.
By exploring progress across a range of relevant disciplines, including microbiology, enzymology and biomass conversion, we found many exciting approaches.
We also carried out a broad survey of science and patent literature, against which we tested five hypotheses for possible effective approaches to enhancing waste breakdown. This technology landscaping process revealed ideas to support most of our hypotheses, forming a key input for our innovation process.
Building New Knowledge
We’re bringing together leading expertise in biochemistry, physical chemistry, microbial diversity, mathematical modelling and geophysical mapping.
Together these experts enable us to maximise our learning about pit latrine performance through two closely-linked lines of work:
- Analysing and modelling latrine contents and processes to identify the major factors which control fill rate
- Understanding the influence of pit design, environment, usage and location on decomposition rates and pit lifetime.
Our scientific research is designed to make new discoveries about factors that affect the break-down of pit latrine contents – discoveries that can drive future innovation for improved sanitation.
Get Involved
We’d love to hear from researchers, scientists or product developers who have ideas for how we can solve the exciting challenges we face.
Please get in touch if you think you can help.
