Evaluation of a closed-loop sanitation system in a cold climate: a case from peri-urban areas of Mongolia

This study examines a closed-loop sanitation system (CLSS) in the ger areas (informal peri-urban settlements) of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia in order to evaluate system feasibility and to identify the future prospects of CLSS as an alternative to conventional sanitation and drainage options. Results show that the CLSS concept is well understood and accepted by users and that services are being scaled up. Over 50 percent of respondents used CLSS technologies during both winter and summer, testifying to the potential for scaling up these technologies and services. Moreover, all users responded positively in their evaluation of the emptying services. Despite some problems and challenges, the system proved to be feasible, replicable and acceptable in the study area. It is recommended that the entire CLSS approach be tested through scientific validation to convince more communities, government and other stakeholders about scaling up the system beyond the study area for better health, environmental conservation and resource recovery.