Bangladeshi arsenic- and salt-mitigation sourcebook and decision-support tool, 2015. IRC, BRAC and Practica Foundation.
Authors: Szántó, G., Halem, D. van, et al.
This publication provides a detailed description of the ASTRA arsenic- and salt-mitigation tool developed in the framework of the BRAC WASH II programme. It is a supporting compendium and tool to help decision-makers, practitioners and students understand and identify potentially appropriate technological solutions to tackle the widespread arsenic and salinity problems in the water sources of Bangladesh. The main focus is on arsenic removal by disinfection and (in)filtration and on the use of alternative water sources. The publication draws on both Bangladeshi and international research and practical experience.
The identification of appropriate solutions is based on a multidisciplinary assessment and matching of method functionality within a given local context. The publication contains both critical reviews and practical information of all potentially applicable solutions.
The first chapter describes the growing water stress and its key drivers in Bangladesh. The sourcebook includes mitigation methods that can either treat or circumvent arsenic- or salt-contaminated water sources. Three mitigation routes are outlined: (i) targeting arsenic- or salt-free groundwater, (ii) treating arsenic- or salt contaminated groundwater or (iii) disinfecting alternative, non-groundwater sources.
Using one or more of the identified mechanisms, 26 specific technological methods are identified as eligible for the water sector in Bangladesh. Their in-depth descriptions are given in chapter 6 of this publication. The descriptions of technical, institutional, ecological and socio-economic features are accompanied by eligibility matrices. The matrices allow users to assess the applicability of solutions for local or project-specific criteria. The description of decision-support tool is coupled with the user manual and the related online version. Finally, there is a discussion on ways to further improve the sustainability of the Bangladeshi water sector.
