Building sustainable septic systems in Lowndes County, Alabama

Access to sanitation is a human right, but failing and unmonitored septic systems remain common in low-income communities across the United States. In Lowndes County, Alabama — a predominantly African-American, low-income, rural community — 34 percent of residents test positive for hookworm due to inadequate sanitation. This project will partner with the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice (CREEJ), the county commission, and national advocacy organizations to establish a community-led monitoring program integrating low-cost sensors, environmental sampling, and routine surveys. Over three years, the researchers will co-design new septic systems with residents, develop monitoring tools to improve system longevity, and assess performance, costs, and equity outcomes — providing a model for climate-resilient sanitation upgrades in marginalized communities.

Above: A residential septic tank. Image credit: Aleksandr Potashev / iStock