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Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies

Christoph Lüthi

Do you want to learn how to plan affordable and context-specific sanitation solutions? Be up-to-date on the newest developments in urban sanitation planning and programming? Get to know best practice examples of urban sanitation systems in low- and middle-income countries? If yes, this course is for you!

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Do you want to learn how to plan affordable and context-specific sanitation solutions? Be up-to-date on the newest developments in urban sanitation planning and programming? Get to know best practice examples of urban sanitation systems in low- and middle-income countries? If yes, this course is for you!

This course provides you with an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, both on a citywide scale and for specific contexts such as informal settlements. You will become familiar with different sanitation planning frameworks as well as different systems and technologies relevant along the sanitation value chain. You will learn why systems’ thinking is crucial for urban environmental sanitation, and how to apply key terminology and important concepts.

This course is one of four in the series “Sanitation, Water and Solid Waste for Development". www.eawag.ch/mooc

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1- Introduction to Urban Sanitation Planning
(EN) In the first week of this course, we provide background on why sanitation, despite being one of the most important basic services due to its impact on public health and productivity, is often one of the least prioritised in low- and middle-income countries. We introduce the basics of urban sanitation planning and the crucial role of safely managed sanitation in urban development. You will become familiar with different sanitation planning approaches at citywide and neighbourhood level. ******************************************************************* (FR) Dans la première semaine de ce cours, nous expliquons pourquoi l'assainissement, bien qu'étant l'un des services de base les plus importants en raison de son impact sur la santé publique et la productivité, est souvent l'une des priorités les plus faibles dans les pays à revenu faible et intermédiaire. Nous présentons les bases de la planification de l'assainissement urbain et le rôle crucial d'un assainissement géré en toute sécurité dans le développement urbain. Vous vous familiariserez avec les différentes approches de planification de l'assainissement à l'échelle de la ville et du quartier. ********************************************************************* (ES) En la primera semana de este curso, proporcionamos antecedentes sobre por qué el saneamiento, a pesar de ser uno de los servicios básicos más importantes debido a su impacto en la salud pública y la productividad, es a menudo uno de los menos prioritarios en los países de ingresos bajos y medios. Introduciremos los fundamentos de la planificación del saneamiento urbano y el papel crucial de un saneamiento gestionado de forma segura en el desarrollo urbano. Se familiarizará con diferentes enfoques de planificación del saneamiento a nivel de ciudad y de barrio.
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Week 2 - Sanitation Systems & Technologies [1]
(EN) After getting to know different sanitation planning planning approaches in the first week of this course, you will learn about the key terminology and concepts used in the systems approach to environmental sanitation. We will also explore why systems thinking is crucial for urban environmental sanitation and start with a deep dive into the technical aspects of different sanitation systems, starting with the functional groups. **************************************************************** (FR) Après avoir fait connaissance avec les différentes approches de planification de l'assainissement au cours de la première semaine de ce cours, vous apprendrez la terminologie et les concepts clés utilisés dans l'approche systémique de l'assainissement environnemental. Nous explorerons également les raisons pour lesquelles la pensée systémique est cruciale pour l'assainissement environnemental urbain et nous commencerons par une plongée en profondeur dans les aspects techniques des différents systèmes d'assainissement, en commençant par les groupes fonctionnels. **************************************************************** (ES) Tras conocer diferentes enfoques de planificación del saneamiento en la primera semana de este curso, presentaremos la terminología y los conceptos clave utilizados en el enfoque sistémico del saneamiento ambiental. También exploraremos por qué el pensamiento sistémico es crucial para el saneamiento ambiental urbano y comenzaremos con una inmersión profunda en los aspectos técnicos de los diferentes sistemas de saneamiento, empezando por los grupos funcionales.
Week 3 - Sanitation Systems & Technologies [2]
(EN) During week 3, you will continue exploring the technical aspects of different sanitation systems, from simple single pit system to more complex centralized or semi-centralised treatment systems. ************************************************************** (FR) Au cours de la troisième semaine, vous continuerez à explorer les aspects techniques des différents systèmes d'assainissement, du simple système à fosse unique aux systèmes de traitement centralisés ou semi-centralisés plus complexes. ************************************************************** (ES) Durante la semana 3, continuaremos explorando los aspectos técnicos de los diferentes sistemas de saneamiento, desde el sencillo sistema de una sola fosa hasta sistemas de tratamiento centralizados o semicentralizados más complejos.
Week 4 - Cross-cutting Topics & Sanitation Tools
(EN) In this week, we contextualise what you have learned in the previous weeks about existing planning frameworks and sanitation systems and technologies. We introduce the project management cycle and selected sanitation planning tools currently used in sanitation planning. **************************************************************** (FR) Cette semaine, nous contextualisons ce que vous avez appris au cours des semaines précédentes sur les cadres de planification existants et sur les systèmes et technologies d'assainissement. Nous présentons le cycle de gestion de projet et certains outils de planification de l'assainissement actuellement utilisés dans la planification de l'assainissement. **************************************************************** (ES) En esta semana, contextualizamos lo aprendido en las semanas anteriores sobre los marcos de planificación existentes y los sistemas y tecnologías de saneamiento. Presentamos el ciclo de gestión de proyectos y algunas herramientas de planificación del saneamiento utilizadas actualmente en la planificación del saneamiento.
Week 5 - Global Sanitation Case Studies
(EN) Finally, in week 5 we present examples of urban sanitation best practice and failed cases from around the world. We present selected case studies in which different sanitation solutions from neighbourhood to national scale are trialed or already fully established. ********************************************************************* (FR) Enfin, la semaine 5 présente des exemples de bonnes pratiques et d'échecs en matière d'assainissement urbain dans le monde entier. Nous présentons des études de cas sélectionnées dans lesquelles différentes solutions d'assainissement, du quartier à l'échelle nationale, sont testées ou déjà bien établies. ********************************************************************* (ES) Por último, en la semana 5 presentamos ejemplos de buenas prácticas de saneamiento urbano y casos fallidos de todo el mundo. Presentamos estudios de casos seleccionados en los que se prueban o ya están plenamente establecidas diferentes soluciones de saneamiento, desde escala vecinal hasta nacional.

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Know what's good
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, and possible dealbreakers
Explores sanitation planning best practices and case studies from around the world
Taught by Christoph Lüthi, an expert in sanitation planning
Suitable for students interested in urban planning, public health, or environmental management
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sanitation planning process
Covers the technical aspects of different sanitation systems and technologies
Includes hands-on demonstrations and interactive exercises

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Reviews summary

Sanitation planning & technology

Learners say that this course offers good information about designing and planning sanitation systems and technologies, especially in developing countries. The course includes case studies and materials that are well-explained and practical. The information is in-depth and provides a lot of useful knowledge that can be applied to real-life situations.
The course is commended for having a good amount of information.
"Great amount of knowledge about sanitation system earned through this course"
"very interesting and helpful course, a lot of useful knowledge for sanitation and waste management services. "
Learners find the case studies to be a strength of the course.
"very good case studies"
"Wide spectrum covered. More case study videos can be included"
The course covers both technical and social aspects of sanitation.
"Excellent course with practical, empirical and applicable tools. It integrates technical, social, economic and cultural perspectives to successfully implement sanitation systems."
"very interesting course, with plenty of examples and the information to drive us through the course giving us a lot of skills that will be helpful in our careers. Thanks"
The course has largely positive feedback.
"Great course."
"very interesting!! "
"Excellent MOOC! "
"Very relavant course "
"very helpful knowledge "
"Great learning experience."
"Excelent videos and speakers!"
"Very thorough and insightful!"
"G​reat course"
"Great Course "
Some learners found the course to be longer than expected.
"A good course, but it takes more than 17 hours to complete, so the estimated time should be revised"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies with these activities:
Review technical terminology
Reviewing technical terminology will ensure you have the foundation needed to follow the course material.
Browse courses on Sanitation Systems
Show steps
  • Identify the different terms related to urban sanitation
  • Create a glossary or mind map
  • Use the glossary or mind map to practice using the terms in context
Organize and review course resources
Take ownership of your learning by organizing course materials to maximize retention.
Show steps
  • Review and categorize course notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
  • Create a study guide or a digital repository
  • Use the materials to regularly review and reinforce your knowledge
Join a study group
Connect with other learners and reinforce your understanding through group discussions.
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group
  • Schedule regular meetings
  • Discuss course materials and concepts
  • Work together on assignments
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Participate in Peer Study Groups
Participating in peer study groups will provide opportunities to discuss and clarify concepts, share insights, and support each other's learning.
Show steps
  • Join or form a study group with classmates.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials and assignments.
  • Collaborate on problem-solving, case studies, or projects.
Explore online resources on sanitation planning
Supplement your understanding of sanitation planning by exploring reputable online resources and tutorials.
Browse courses on Sanitation Planning
Show steps
  • Identify credible websites and organizations providing information on sanitation planning
  • Review articles, reports, and case studies on various sanitation planning approaches
  • Follow online tutorials and webinars on specific aspects of sanitation planning, such as engineering design or community engagement
Develop a hypothetical sanitation system
Engage with the material by designing a sanitation system that meets specific requirements.
Browse courses on Sanitation Systems
Show steps
  • Identify the specific requirements for the sanitation system
  • Consider different sanitation technologies
  • Design a system that meets the requirements
  • Develop a plan for implementing the system
Calculate and compare sanitation indicators
Practice calculating and interpreting sanitation indicators to enhance your understanding of sanitation status and progress.
Browse courses on Water and Sanitation
Show steps
  • Gather data on sanitation access and coverage
  • Calculate indicators such as access to improved sanitation, safely managed sanitation, and handwashing facilities
  • Compare indicators across different geographical areas or time periods
  • Analyze the results and identify trends or disparities
Explore additional case studies
Expand your knowledge by learning about real-world examples of urban sanitation initiatives.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for case studies
  • Read articles and case studies
  • Analyze the case studies
  • Discuss the findings with others
Volunteer with a Sanitation-Focused Organization
Volunteering with a sanitation-focused organization will provide practical experience and allow students to contribute to improving sanitation in the community.
Show steps
  • Identify a sanitation-focused organization in the local area.
  • Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in activities such as sanitation education, awareness campaigns, or community outreach.
Design a sanitation system for a specific context
Apply your knowledge of sanitation systems and technologies to design a tailored solution for a specific context, enhancing your understanding of practical implementation.
Browse courses on Sanitation Technologies
Show steps
  • Select a specific context or community for your design
  • Conduct a needs assessment and gather data on the existing sanitation situation
  • Explore and assess different sanitation technologies and system options
  • Design a sanitation system that meets the specific needs and constraints of the context
  • Prepare a technical report and presentation outlining your design
Write a proposal for an urban sanitation project
Apply your knowledge by writing a proposal to address sanitation issues in an urban area.
Browse courses on Urban Sanitation
Show steps
  • Identify a specific problem related to urban sanitation
  • Develop a proposed solution
  • Draft a proposal that includes a budget and timeline
  • Seek feedback on the proposal
Participate in Sanitation Design Competitions
Participating in sanitation design competitions will provide opportunities to showcase skills, solve complex sanitation challenges, and network with professionals in the field.
Show steps
  • Identify sanitation design competitions that are relevant to the course.
  • Form a team or collaborate with classmates to develop a design solution.
  • Submit the design solution and present it to a panel of judges.
Develop a Sanitation Plan for a Local Community
Developing a sanitation plan will provide hands-on experience in applying the concepts learned in the course to a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Sanitation Planning
Show steps
  • Identify a local community in need of improved sanitation.
  • Conduct a needs assessment and data collection.
  • Design a sanitation plan that addresses the identified needs.
  • Present the sanitation plan to the community and stakeholders.

Career center

Learners who complete Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sanitation Engineer
Sanitation Engineers prevent or reduce the presence of harmful agents, such as disease vectors (e.g., mosquitoes) and bacteria that cause disease and discomfort. This course may be useful for a Sanitation Engineer as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, both on a citywide scale and for specific contexts such as informal settlements. It will also help to build a foundation in the technical aspects of different sanitation systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sanitation Engineer
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators operate and maintain wastewater treatment plants. They work with a variety of equipment and systems to remove pollutants from wastewater. This course may be useful for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators, as it provides an introduction to the technical aspects of different sanitation systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Water and Sanitation Specialist
Water and Sanitation Specialists work with various stakeholders, including decision-makers, water and sanitation utilities, and community-based organizations, to promote sanitation and hygiene practices, as well as ensure the quality of drinking water. This course may be useful for a Water and Sanitation Specialist, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, both on a citywide scale and for specific contexts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Water and Sanitation Specialist
Environmental Program Manager
Environmental Program Managers typically oversee or help implement environmental programs, and this typically involves planning and budget management. This course may be useful for Environmental Program Managers, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning and the project management cycle.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Program Manager
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers plan and execute ways to improve air and water quality and protect the well-being of the public. They have specialized knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations and ensure a company's adherence to these regulations. This course may be useful for an Environmental Engineer as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, both on a citywide scale and for specific contexts such as informal settlements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer
Water Quality Analyst
Water Quality Analysts conduct tests to determine the quality of water. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Water Quality Analysts who are working on water quality projects with a focus on sanitation. It will help to build a foundation in the technical aspects of the sanitation value chain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Water Quality Analyst
Water Resources Engineer
Water Resources Engineers design and manage water resources projects, such as dams and reservoirs. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Water Resources Engineers who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resources Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and water treatment plants. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Civil Engineers who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course may be useful for Project Managers who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists conduct research on the environment and develop solutions to environmental problems. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Environmental Scientists who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist
Urban Planner
Urban Planners are responsible for the development and implementation of plans and policies that guide the development of land and property. They help to ensure that communities are sustainable and that they meet the needs of their residents. This course may be useful for engineers, architects, and planners who are involved in urban planning, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, which is an important aspect of urban development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Environmental Compliance Inspector
Environmental Compliance Inspectors enforce environmental regulations, which typically are aimed at protecting the environment and ensuring the public's health. This course may be useful for Environmental Compliance Inspectors, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning, both on a citywide scale and for specific contexts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Compliance Inspector
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants work with organizations to help them improve their environmental performance. They help to develop and implement sustainability plans and programs. This course may be useful for Sustainability Consultants who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant
Public Health Engineer
Public Health Engineers protect the health of the public by designing and implementing public health programs. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups. This course may be useful for Public Health Engineers who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Engineer
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants advise businesses and other organizations on how to improve their environmental performance. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Environmental Consultants who are working on sanitation projects, as it provides an introduction to integrated sanitation planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Planning & Design of Sanitation Systems and Technologies.
Cover image
Sanitation Safety Planning
Save
This manual provides practical guidance on how to develop and implement a sanitation safety plan (SSP) for the safe use and disposal of wastewater, greywater and excreta. It is intended for use by public health professionals, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in the planning and implementation of sanitation systems.
Sanitation Safety Planning
Paperback
Check
Sanitation Safety Planning
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Health in the Americas 2002
Save
Provides practical guidance on the planning and implementation of excreta disposal systems for rural areas and small communities. It covers a wide range of topics, including site selection, design, construction, and operation and maintenance.
Health in the Americas, 2002, 2 Volume Set
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Mountain Ice and Water
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the engineering principles and design concepts of urban sanitation and water engineering, with a focus on developing countries.
Mountain Ice and Water: Investigations of the...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Low-cost Sanitation
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of environmental sanitation, including wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and air pollution control.
Low-cost Sanitation
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Operation and Maintenance of Urban Water Supply and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the planning and management of urban water and sanitation services. It covers a wide range of topics, including water resources management, wastewater treatment, and solid waste management.
Operation and Maintenance of Urban Water Supply and...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
El Derecho Internacional, los ODS y la Comunidad...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of environmental sanitation.
(Español) El Derecho Internacional, los ODS y la Comunidad...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Tratamiento biológico de aguas residuales:...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and technologies of wastewater treatment.
(Español) Tratamiento biológico de aguas residuales /...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
ISE Introduction to Environmental Engineering
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, including water quality, air pollution, and solid waste management.
ISE Introduction to Environmental Engineering (ISE...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Health Economics for Developing Countries
Save
Provides a practical guide to improving health and the environment through sanitation and hygiene. It covers a wide range of topics, including the different types of sanitation systems, the role of hygiene education, and the importance of community involvement.
Health Economics for Developing Countries
Paperback
Check
Health Economics for Developing Countries
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introducción a la Ingeniería Industrial
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of environmental engineering.
Introducción a la Ingeniería Industrial
Paperback
Check
Introducción a la Ingeniería Industrial
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Environmental Health Engineering in the Tropics
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of sanitation in developing countries. It covers a wide range of topics, including the different types of sanitation systems, the challenges of providing sanitation in rural areas, and the role of international development organizations in sanitation.
Environmental Health Engineering in the Tropics
Paperback
Check
Environmental Health Engineering in the Tropics
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
4-6 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne2
Instructor
Christoph Lüthi
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Good to know
Explores sanitation planning best practices and case studies from around the world
Taught by Christoph Lüthi, an expert in sanitation planning
Suitable for students interested in urban planning, public health, or environmental management
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sanitation planning process
Covers the technical aspects of different sanitation systems and technologies
Includes hands-on demonstrations and interactive exercises
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