Innovative Modifications of the Septic Tank System for Greater Efficiency and Local Applicability

This research concerns Nsukka, Nigeria, which suffers from chronic sanitation issues partly due to the lack of water and poorly designed septic tanks. To rectify the challenge, modern plumbing innovations appropriate for the context’s economic constraints were designed. The first phase of the project was a literature review and included analyzing septic tank patents and identifying existing limitations. After that, the research method involved conducting qualitative household surveys utilizing questionnaires and some form of an interview to find out what sanitation problems are unique to the residents of Nsukka. This methodology was effective because residents reported a great deal of problems such as constant blockages, slow waste breakdown, inadequate ease of maintenance, and complicated financial burdens of the sanitation systems.
With the understanding of limiting factors and optimal factors already set, conceptually eight different designs of novel septic tank systems were constructed. The systems are tailored for the specific problems posed by the community, mainly efficient treatment of wastewater at minimal costs.
The designs were assessed on their potential for scalability and sustainability within Nsukka, taking into account local material selection, maintenance, and operational expenses.
This research aims to aid in formulating feasible, community-based interventions for sanitation in economically and infrastructurally disadvantaged areas. These results will be useful for policymakers and other relevant parties and in the design and development of sanitation policies and systems for infrastructure and sanitation in these innovative and low-cost designs. This initiative seeks to facilitate sustainable wastewater treatment and reuse practices for public health and environmental enhancement in Nsuka and similar communities in a bid to promote economic development while being environmentally friendly.