Greenhouse gas emissions from container-based sanitation systems in East African cities: a case study in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Sanitation systems emit greenhouse gases (GHGs), which were estimated to comprise 3% of global emissions and pose challenges to sustain-able development goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 13 and SDG 6.2 which are focused on climate action and sanitation. This study quantifiedGHG emissions from the containment component of the container-based sanitation (CBS) system, with a specific focus on Fresh Life Toilets(FLTs) in Nairobi, Kenya. Field measurements performed over 10-day studies revealed total GHG emissions of 15.72 kg CO(2)eq/capita/yearfrom faecal matter alone, excluding the emissions from urine. Nuanced variations in emissions were encountered, notably with highermethane production at the point of temporary storage (0.40 kg CO2eq/capita/year) compared to values at the capture and the emptying,which were much below the detection level of the equipment used. This insight underscores the complexities of GHG dynamics withinCBS systems, highlighting the ongoing necessity for research to refine and enhance precision in GHG assessments related to CBS. The resultsof this study contribute to elucidating the impact of climate change on CBS systems.

Keywords

container-based sanitation; emissions; greenhouse gases; Nairobi

Published in

Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development
2024
Publisher: IWA PUBLISHING

SLU Authors

• Mcconville, Jennifer

  • Department of Energy and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Environmental Sciences
Oceanography, Hydrology, Water Resources

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2024.115

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/139497