Implementing environmental technologies in development situations: The example of ecological toilets

Traditional technology transfer models typically employ a four-stage approach: planning, selection, implementation, and evaluation. This paper examines the value of such an approach in promoting the use of environmental technologies in community development. The TepozEco Urban Ecological Sanitation Pilot Project in Tepoztlán, Morelos State, Mexico, provides a case study. Thirty interviews with recipients of ecological toilets, project staff and volunteers, and local and state government representatives were conducted during 2007. The steps required to implement this ‘extreme’ environmental technology are tested against traditional models of technology transfer. A revised model is proposed. This sets out an iterative process centred on the need to recognise evaluation at all steps and phases of the transfer process, not simply as one stage in a linear progression.

► The adoption of ecological toilets is examined at a household and community level. ► Novel technologies are shown to require an emphasis on community education. ► The value of a demonstration model is highlighted. ► The transfer of novel technologies requires an iterative process. ► Needed changes imply a need to rework established evaluation techniques.