Tuvalu International Waters project : communications strategy

Abstract

There is an urgent need to improve the management of toilet waste in Funafuti the capital of Tuvalu. The current water-based systems for managing toilet waste, such as water-sealed latrines and septic tanks, are now threatening the sensitive groundwater system of this fragile atoll. During high tides and heavy rains it is likely that contaminated effluent from soakage pits is overflowing into low-lying residential areas, putting people at risk from illnesses such as hepatitis, typhoid, gastroenteritis and diarrhea. Diarrhea is a leading cause of death, in many Pacific Island communities, particularly in children under five years of age.