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TitleSimulating nutrient and energy fluxes in non-networked sanitation systems : a paper presented at the second conference on developments in faecal slu...
Publication TypeConference Paper
Year of Publication2012
AuthorsCampos, LC, Jain, V, Schuetze, M
Pagination9 p.; 7 fig.; 1 tab.
Date Published2012-10-29
PublisherS.n.
Place PublishedS.l.
Keywordscase studies, faecal sludge management [FSM], nutrients, resource centres, urine treatment
Abstract

Increasing resource constraints mean that cities need to adopt and implement more resource efficient sanitation systems. Many of these are based on non- networked solutions and use innovative treatment technologies, but the majority of which have only been applied at the small-scale. Simulation models provide a cost-efficient means to simulate these technologies under several scenarios and to assist the identification of the most sustainable sanitation solution for a given case study city. These provide city managers with a tool to aid decision-making from a macro-perspective to assess the application of these technologies within their city. However, existing simulation models for sanitation planning in developed countries focus mainly on networked systems and are, thus, not appropriate for the situation in many African and Asian cities. This paper presents the ongoing development of the “NewSan” simulator for modelling the fluxes of human excreta from household to final disposal/reuse, focussing on fluxes of nutrient, energy and water. The simulator enables a comparison of conventional sanitation systems (i.e. flush toilet and pit latrines) with “new” sanitation systems such as urine diversion and vacuum toilet systems. The simulator aids in determining sustainable sanitation solutions for the boundary conditions of the respective site based on material flow analysis. The amount of nutrients and energy available for recovery provide an indication of the economic potential of waste reuse. This paper illustrates its adaptation and application to the context of non-networked sanitation systems, using a city in Africa (Durban) as an example. The model outputs include the main fluxes of nutrients, water and energy and, thus, their available amount for recovery, volume and quality of treated waste for reuse, and an estimate of indicator bacteria reduction. The amount of nutrients and energy available for recovery also provide an indication of the economic potential of waste reuse. [authors abstract]

NotesWith references on p.9
Custom 1342

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