Selection of unconventional sanitation alternatives in peri-urban neighborhoods without sewer networks: a case from La Nueva Rinconada, Southern Lima

Abstract

In peri-urban neighborhoods without sewer networks in southern Lima, sanitation reflects persistent inequalities in habitat conditions and urban infrastructure provision. This article examines a 2022 experience in La Nueva Rinconada aimed at selecting a non-conventional sanitation alternative through a participatory mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative work with families, territorial, climatic and regulatory analysis, and expert consultation through the Delphi technique. Rather than developing a new technology, the study sought to identify an alternative compatible with local social, environmental and territorial conditions. The findings show that the selection did not depend solely on technical performance, but also on social acceptability, maintenance, water availability and use, and adaptation to local conditions. A flush toilet connected to a self-cleaning biodigester proved to be the best fit for the case studied. The article argues that sanitation technologies reshape domestic practices, water use, privacy, maintenance routines and the progressive consolidation of housing in peripheral urbanization processes.