Can Sanitation Technology Play a Role in User Perceptions of Resource Recovery? An Evaluation of Composting Latrine Use in Developing World Communities in Panama

There remains a large unmet need for sanitation access throughout the world that compromises both human and environmental health. Opportunities exist to employ sanitation systems that better utilize and recover scarce resources from excreta such as water, energy, and nutrients. However, technologies such as a composting latrine may require more maintenance and close handling of feces compared to other sanitation technologies. This study aims to evaluate how use of on-site composting latrine technology and other demographic characteristics are associated with users’ perceptions of excreta for resource recovery. Field observations and interviews of composting latrine users (N = 201) and 200 perceptions surveys were administered to composting and non-composting latrine users in Indigenous and Latino communities in Panama. Of the completed composting latrines, 78% were in use and 65% of these were used properly. Compost latrine design and operational factors identified to improve were: anal wash capability, desiccant supply, children usage, and clogging urine tubes. Demographic categories associated with positive perceptions toward resource recovery (p < 0.05) were ethnicity (14 out of 16 total statements) and sanitation type (11) then community origin (7), occupation (5), education (4), age (3), and gender (1)