Wastewater management in developing countries: Bolivia case studies

Wastewater management in developing countries still is a challenge, especially in small towns. The aim of this study is to understand technical and social factors related to management. Thus, the context surrounding the performance of six treatment plants in rural areas of Cochabamba, Bolivia were investigated: three small treatment plants (2000-10000 p.e.; flow>5L/s) and three very small treatment plants (<2000 p.e.; flow<5L/s). Performance of the plants was measured based on the removal of TSS, BOD5 and Fecal Coliforms. Management data was collected through semi-structured interviews with water association managers and users. Results found that inappropriate design and type of technology, lack of operational expertise and lack of financial resources were the main factors related to low performance. Moreover, lack of financial resources is linked to the awareness of users on the importance of having the service and willingness to pay for their adequate functioning

Sanitation coverage at the case study site in 2014.

<p>Striped bars display existing sanitation facilities of the selected informants. Black bars show sanitation solution according to a questionaire by a local non-governmental organization (NGO) with a 89% answer frequency.</p

Triggers and veto-barriers determine the adoption process.

<p>Triggers and veto-barriers determine the adoption process.</p

Sanitation development among the informants at the study site since it was founded in 2002.

<p>Sanitation development among the informants at the study site since it was founded in 2002.</p

Adoption groups, including respective triggers or veto barriers and differentiating characteristics.

<p>Adoption groups, including respective triggers or veto barriers and differentiating characteristics.</p

Wastewater management in small towns – understanding the failure of small treatment plants in Bolivia

<p>Wastewater management in developing countries is a challenge, especially in small towns with rapid population growth. This study aims at assessing the performance and management of five treatment plants (TPs) in rural areas of Cochabamba, Bolivia. Pollutants’ concentrations, wastewater flows, hydraulic and organic loads and hydraulic retention times were determined in three small treatment plants (2000–10,000 population equivalent [p.e.]; flow > 432 m³/d) and two very small treatment plants (<2000 p.e.; flow < 432 m³/d). The performance assessment was based on operational parameters, treatment efficiency and effluent quality. Management data were collected through semi-structured interviews with managers of local water associations. The results support that the poor performance of the TPs is due to lack of operational expertise and financial resources for adequate operation and maintenance (O&M). Additionally, effective treatment was affected by the type of technology used and whether the plant design included plans for O&M with available resources. This study contributes to a better understanding of actual operating conditions of wastewater TPs in small towns, thus providing needed information regarding technology selection, design, implementation and operation.</p