World Toilet Day – November 19

November 19 represents a highly significant date for the GEF CReW+ Project because it involves three interconnected elements in the protection of the Caribbean Sea: toilets, sanitation, and beach pollution. Each of these elements is a key part of the project.

Toilets and the Caribbean Sea

The discharge of human waste into water has effects on both people's health and the quality and availability of water. Therefore, not having access to a toilet puts everyone's health at risk, as a small group of people without toilets can contaminate a water source used by entire communities.

Currently, 3.5 billion people live without safe access to sanitation, and 419 million people practice open defecation, leaving a large gap in the sector worldwide. In the Greater Caribbean Region, in countries like Saint Lucia, approximately three out of every four households have tank-type toilet facilities, while one in five households relies on pit latrines.

The use of toilets, especially in Saint Lucia and small island nations, is crucial due to their dependence on tourism and marine resources, which require special sanitation facilities near the coastlines. In the Caribbean, the estimated annual net benefits of coral reefs are around 391 million dollars, making the protection of marine resources both an environmental and economic priority.

Sanitation in the Greater Caribbean Region

The GEF CReW+ project contributes to rural and coastal communities by providing tailor-made sanitation solutions and working on the adoption of safe sanitation practices. In Canaries, Saint Lucia, the project focuses on innovations in three community bathroom groups operated by the municipality: Dix Road, Riverside Road, and Flora Villa.

These three toilets will receive rainwater harvesting systems for flushing toilets and water-saving improvements. Both measures also represent a step forward in applying the principles of the circular economy by reusing a resource that is often wasted and reducing water consumption. Additionally, as part of the comprehensive solution, monitoring and evaluation activities, as well as environmental education and awareness programs, will be carried out.

In Honduras, the project worked hand-in-hand with the Miskito indigenous community in the construction of latrines. This activity was aimed not only at providing a sanitation solution but also at generating community ownership of the technology by involving them early in the construction process and adopting indigenous practices, such as cutting wood according to lunar cycles, in line with the local worldview.

In Mexico, the construction of eco-technologies has supported sanitation solutions for schools and households in three communities. In October, the project completed work in San Antonio Segundo, rehabilitating sanitation systems installed several years ago, as well as rainwater harvesting systems for later use. Additionally, training on aquifer care was provided. Work is expected to continue in two more communities between 2024 and 2025.

Although having a toilet is often taken for granted, its value becomes apparent when considered from other perspectives. According to data from the United Nations, for every dollar invested in toilets, there is a return of five dollars saved in medical expenses and increased productivity. World Toilet Day allows us to reassess the value of toilets from multiple angles and take action for those who still do not have them but desperately need them.