8.6.1 What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of infiltration? - Humanitarian Sanitation Hub

8.6.1 What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of infiltration?

The following table outlines the potential advantages and disadvantages of effluent infiltration.


AdvantagesDisadvantages
Suitable option when reuse of effluent is not possibleDepending on the infiltration system, there is a relatively high space requirement (min. 20 m2/m3 effluent for infiltration trenches)
Infiltration by trenches is cheap if gravel and geotextile are locally available and the soil is sufficiently porousThe level of deep groundwater can increase following infiltration. The risk of flooding may increase. Adequate security measures must be considered
Implementation is relatively easy and can be done by local workers under supervisionInfiltration fields cannot be ploughed or cultivated. Tree roots in the infiltration trenches need to be avoided
Health risks are minimal since effluent flows undergroundEffluent needs to be adequately pre-treated before infiltration
Low maintenance requirementsGroundwater levels must be as deep as possible to minimise the risk of contamination
It may negatively affect soil and groundwater properties
Advantages and Disadvantages of Infiltration
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