In a decisive step to improve sanitation services in informal settlements, Mogale City has begun rolling out an innovative, environmentally friendly and cost-effective sanitation system using the Enviro Loo system.
The initiative responds to ongoing sanitation challenges driven by the rapid growth of informal settlements such as Smokedown, coupled with limited bulk infrastructure and constrained water supply. Conventional sewer networks are often not viable in peri-urban and rural areas, prompting the municipality to pursue sustainable alternative technologies that are waterless, environmentally safe, and financially responsible.
Following a comprehensive evaluation of various sanitation options, including chemical toilets, the municipality adopted the Enviro Loo dry sanitation technology. The system uses natural processes such as ventilation, dehydration and solar heat to safely treat human waste without contaminating groundwater resources.
The rollout has commenced in Smokedown, where several Enviro Loo units are currently being installed to address long-standing sanitation challenges faced by residents.
The waterless sanitation system separates solid and liquid waste without the use of water, chemicals, or external energy. It relies primarily on passive solar heat and wind-driven ventilation, with the option of low-power fans where required.
Although the upfront capital investment is higher than that of chemical toilets, the technology offers significant long-term value through lower maintenance costs and improved operational efficiency. While chemical toilets require servicing costs of approximately R1781.00 per month, the Enviro Loo system incurs maintenance costs of about only R180.00 every three months – representing a substantial saving for the municipality.
In addition to cost savings, the system is designed to dehydrate solid waste into an ash-like substance, minimise odours, reduce servicing frequency to a quarterly schedule, and eliminate water consumption.
Speaking during the rollout, Executive Mayor Lucky Sele emphasised the municipality’s commitment to sustainable service delivery and environmental stewardship.
“Today’s Enviro Loo handover is about restoring dignity to our residents while delivering a sustainable sanitation solution that protects our environment and improves daily living conditions in our communities,” said Sele.
Guided by detailed technical and financial analysis, the municipality selected the technology for its sustainability, durability, and long-term cost-saving benefits. The initiative is expected to save the municipality hundreds of thousands over time, allowing resources to be redirected towards other critical service delivery priorities.
The municipality remains committed to advancing dignified, environmentally responsible sanitation solutions that improve the quality of life for all residents.