Using biogas technology to solve the disposal issues surrounding latrine waste
Practical Action
draining out of the programme leaving the loop open. A theory generated through research is
incentivising behaviour using money. Figure 9 conveys a suitable model.
Figure 9: Financial model by-passing the customer/emptier transaction
Firstly it reverses the flow of money, incentivising the emptying contractors to perform their
task decreasing dumping, and also solving the issue of where to spread the residual by forging
agreements with local farmers as outlined above. Instead of the emptier receiving their money
from the customer, they would get paid on delivery of the sludge to the digester. This would
ensure collection and correct delivery, closing the loop. Also the dashed payment arrow
conveys money flowing back into the model, making the whole setup more sustainable.
Generation of revenue from gas will be based on its use, acceptance permitting. Research has
identified that the transaction between customer and emptying contractor is weak and
susceptible to corruption. This model by-passes the connection and flows the money around
the problem.
Care must be taken to ensure good regulation when using this model because the digester
stage of the process becomes critical. The initial issue highlighted from research about
removing the exchange of funds between the customers and emptier is quality of service. If
the emptier views that they are providing a “free” service to the customer, then they are less
likely to perform. The idea would be to remove this perception and make it clear the customer
is still paying for this service and therefore standards should be high or they will be removed
from the programme.
Management and regulation
The most suitable model from research is one where each stakeholder is responsible for their
task, but an overall organisation is employed to look over the whole process (Figure 10). Their
job will be to help organise the material and cash transactions as well as helping to ensure
guidelines are met.
Figure 10: Management structure showing each stakeholder is separate but has an overseeing
organisation
Research suggests a possible collaboration with a local water company could help due to their
managerial, technical experience and their understanding of the local community. They could
also help organise the tariff structure to be used.
Using this management model removes the rigidity that legalised regulation carries and
promotes self-regulation. Each stage in the process having its own management setup means
someone will always be there to monitor what is being put into the digester and therefore the
transaction with the emptier. The janitor can also manage the communal facilities ensuring
they are well maintained and prevent misuse. The post will also be responsible for emptying
the digester and liaising with the organisation that will be taking the residual away. There will
be a close relationship between the janitor and the overseeing organisation to make sure the
money does not stay too long on site to prevent theft. Competition is important for any
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