Compost Toilets
The Great Sea Reef near Mali Island is home to 12 species listed on the IUCN red list of threatened species. One of the easiest ways to help preserve this habitat is to construct dry compost toilets that eliminate the sewage runoff into the sea that cripples the reef ecosystem and reduces the fish population. This project will introduce the first two ecologically-smart, functioning compost toilets to the island, as well as be an instructional tool for the dramatic benefits of having compost toilets, likely expanding future latrine construction. The broader goal is to reduce the impact of the expanding population on the reef so that fish stocks, which these villagers rely on for subsistence, remain for future generations.
Pictures of the Mali project by Peace Corps Volunteer Joe Otts:
Rain Catchment
This project will construct a rain catchment system at a local school, replacing severely damaged and unsanitary cement tanks with four 5,000-liter plastic tanks. The new tanks will provide potable water, improve overall health and help to prevent and treat diseases. The water will be used by children, teachers and teachers’ families living on the compound as well as by all community members who do not have rain catchment systems or water tanks at their homes. This village receives very little rain and is often ignored by the government due to its remote location.
