Despite climate change being a major concern for the sanitation sector, rural sanitation remains neglected in the wider discussions of climate impacts on WASH services. Also, the voices of vulnerable individuals, households, and communities who are experiencing the effects of climate change in relation to sanitation issues are missing.
The aim of this Sanitation Learning Hub case study was to expand the evidence base on climate impacts on rural sanitation and hygiene practices and programmes in Burkina Faso and on practical adaptations to increase resilience and ensure communities are better able to maintain improved sanitation behaviours during and after times of climate stress.
There was a focus on the social dimensions of impacts, exploring vulnerabilities and behavioural aspects of sanitation access and use. Additionally, the research identified the impacts climate change is already having on current programming efforts in rural settings.
Recommendations
- Reinforce sanitation as a priority at household and community level.
- Integrate climate risk factors and adaptations into ongoing sanitation interventions.
- Prepare specific guidance at a commune (area-wide) level.
- Facilitate intersectoral collaboration
- Draw on existing community-level support networks to increase the durability of latrines.
- Build on the strengths of CLTS and community participation.
- Consider alternative methods where needed.
This case study is also available in French: Effet des aléas climatiques sur les pratiques d’hygiène et d’assainissement en milieu rural au Burkina Faso