By Adam Berls

water and sanitation

UNBC research group to host discussion on water and sanitation solutions for rural communities

Apr 8, 2024 | 3:03 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — There is an urgent need to find sustainable water and sanitation solutions in the face of climate change and environmental challenges, and a research group at UNBC is exploring off-grid solutions for small and rural communities.

The Water and Sanitation Holistic Technologies Research Group, or WASHT, is looking into the advantages of decentralized water and sanitation solutions. The group says that decentralized solutions, or off-grid systems, manage water and waste locally, offering an alternative to centralized approaches.

Dr. June Garcia-Becerra, who leads the WASHT research group, says that centralized approaches “struggle to address the unique needs of small and remote communities and on-site systems are inherently more adaptable and cost-effective.”

WASHT says that “realizing the full potential of off-grid solutions requires addressing challenges such as regulatory barriers, funding constraints, and the need for capacity building and technical expertise.” Dr. Garcia-Becerra says that “by diversifying water sources and reducing reliance on centralized infrastructure, communities can become more adaptable and better equipped to withstand disruptions.”

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WASHT is inviting everyone to a public discussion on Wednesday, April 10 from 5pm to 7pm at the Two Rivers Gallery. The discussion is titled Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future in Small Communities with Decentralized and Holistic Water and Sanitation Solutions, and the event will feature local participants and water and sanitation experts discussing the innovation in off-grid technologies in small and remote communities.

Marianella (Nella) Hernandez with WASHT hopes that the discussion on April 10 will “foster innovations that revolve around resilience and people-centered solutions, benefitting not only our own communities but also communities worldwide.”

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X: @AdamBerls

Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com