Demystifying use of septic tanks for waste water treatment in developing countries

Abstract

The narrative that septic tanks are agents of ground water pollution, has contributed to the false negative responses that are experienced any time an installation of these tanks is undertaken. To demystify this narrative, it was imperative to explore different perspectives from social-cultural environment to technological one. The study used qualitative multiple case study approach, to review available published literature, surveys and experimental studies on septic tanks. To resolve the challenge of low sanitation coverage that may risk achievement of SDG 6.2, focus should shift from conventional centralised systems to onsite in this case septic tanks. Within the context of septic tanks, dome shaped digesters should be preferred because of structural integrity when tested for deformations, bending moments and shear forces under different combinations of loads. The social perspectives of pollution, caused by septic tanks, should not stand if baseline data on variables such as space, soil formation and strength of material are conducted. To avoid environmental contamination, areas designated for septic tanks should be delineated as such. An inventory of all septic tanks should be kept. Consultants and developers involved in selection of waste water treatment options, should avoid false negative response and focus on empirical results, after delineation. The research findings have indicated that dome shaped digesters as opposed to traditional rectangular septic tanks, should be adopted if developing countries are to improve sanitation coverage.