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This site aims to provide information and basic knowledge about decentralized waste water systems and their applications, which are often regarded as on-site sanitation. They are common practice in many locations, such as new or reconstructed urban developments, where the infrastructure is not developed; urban/rural areas with poor infrastructure; small population centers and buildings in isolated areas. It is expected that such information would help to achieve good grounds for mutual understanding and cooperation among all stakeholders involved in the process of design, construction, operation, and management of such systems. More attention is given to issues related to urban planning. Most importantly, we believe that this site will be of help to the end-users and owners. Specialized information is given as well.

In public perceptions, decentralized systems are often regarded as an example of underdeveloped and often malfunctioning sanitation practices, which are a major nuisance and burden to the owners and also, could be a hazard to public health and the environment (diffuse pollution of groundwater). This might be the case when their application is not suitable for the specific local conditions, or when they are designed and operated inadequately. The basic principles described in this site could help in a better understanding of possible problems and how to avoid them, and also show that decentralized solutions might be a viable and sustainable solution, as an alternative to conventional wastewater systems.

Dr. R. Hranova has written and organized this site. It can be recommended to read the pages from the navigation bar in consecutive descending order.