Potential Use of Biochar in Pit Latrines as a Faecal Sludge Management Strategy to Reduce Water Resource Contaminations: A Review

Abstract

Faecal sludge management (FSM) in most developing countries is still insufficient. Sanitation challenges within the sub-Saharan region have led to recurring epidemics of water- and sanitation-related diseases. The use of pit latrines has been recognised as an option for on-site sanitation purposes. However, there is also concern that pit latrine leachates may cause harm to human and ecological health. Integrated approaches for improved access to water and sanitation through proper faecal sludge management are needed to address these issues. Biochar a carbon-rich adsorbent produced from any organic biomass when integrated with soil can potentially reduce contamination. The incorporation of biochar in FSM studies has numerous benefits in the control of prospective contaminants (i.e., heavy metals and inorganic and organic pollutants). This review paper evaluated the potential use of biochar in FSM. It was shown from the reviewed articles that biochar is a viable option for faecal sludge management because of its ability to bind contaminants. Challenges and possible sustainable ways to incorporate biochar in pit latrine sludge management were also illustrated. Biochar use as a low-cost adsorbent in wastewater contaminant mitigation can improve the quality of water resources. Biochar-amended sludge can also be repurposed as a useful economical by-product.

The Status of Sanitation in Malawi: Is SDG6.2 Achievable?

“…The most common non-human waste deposited in latrines was ashes (77.1%), commonly added to minimize smell [57,58]. Ash has also been suggested to have the additional benefit of minimizing groundwater contamination from pit-latrines [59]. Smell is an important consideration within the non-human waste deposited in latrines as there are reports of "disinfectants, pesticides, oil, laundry and soapy water, detergents, and car-battery acids" being added to reduce smell from latrines [58].…”

Special Issue on Promising Research and Strategies in Wastewater Treatment, Sludge Management, and Valorisation: Volume I

“…Mamera et al [6] reviewed the literature published on the potential use of biochar, a carbon-rich adsorbent produced from different organic biomass, in faecal sludge management in developing countries. This work determined that biochar is a viable option for faecal sludge management due to its capacity to bind different inorganic and organic pollutants.…”

Biochar ageing improves soil properties, growth and yield of red radish (Raphanus sativus) in a Haplic Cambisol

“…The use of biochar as a soil ameliorant has recently gained momentum in South Africa [ 4 ]. Numerous studies have shown the potential benefits of biochar in improving soil’s physical [ 5 , 6 ], chemical [ 7 , 8 ], and biological properties [ 5 , 9 ]. However, its application soon after the pyrolysis process, herein referred to as fresh biochar, has been reported to have detrimental effects.…”