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Assessing preferences regarding centralized and decentralized water infrastructure in post-earthquake Leogane, Haiti
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Assessing preferences regarding centralized and decentralized water infrastructure in post-earthquake Leogane, Haiti

Heather C Galada, Franco A Montalto, Patrick L Gurian, Mimi Sheller, Tibebu B Ayalew and Stephen O'Connor
Earth perspectives, v 1(1), pp 5-5
12 Feb 2014
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/2194-6434-1-5
url
https://doi.org/10.1186/2194-6434-1-5View
Published, Version of Record (VoR)CC BY V4.0,  Open

Abstract

Biodiversity Biogeosciences Earth and Environmental Science Earth Sciences Earth System Sciences Environmental Law/Policy/Ecojustice Epidemiology General Research Article Water Water at the Nexus of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Science Water Resources and Management
Background Though the benefits of centralized water systems (e.g. improved publichealth, environmental protection, streamlined operations, economy of scale, reliability) are well known, these systems are not always feasible or appropriate. In developing world settings there has been growing interest by infrastructure experts,researchers, and international lending institutions in decentralized means of improving access to drinking water. While decentralized water systems with independent components may be less vulnerable to systemic failures, hazards, and extreme environmental events, centralized water systems are often associated with a higher quality of life. This study investigates stakeholder preferences regarding water infrastructure issues in Leogane, Haiti (population ~300,000), a town situated at the epicenter of the January 2010 earthquake. Methods The methodology included a paper survey, semi-structured interviews, and a participatory workshop. Results While most of the study participants relied on decentralized water sources prior to the earthquake, a majority also expressed a preference for a centralized water system going forward. However, the study participants articulated an integrated vision for the future of local water management. Study participants indicated an interest in alternative decentralized solutions, for example featuring artesian wells with homewater treatment, and saw linkages between water supply decisions and local environmental protection, agriculture, and deforestation. Conclusions These results are discussed within the context of sustainable infrastructure reconstruction efforts in Haiti, specifically as an example of how local preferences can be integrated into the visioning of infrastructure design.

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