Hands-on Training on Preparing Shit Flow Diagrams (SFDs)



Participation by invitation only

Background

Safe water and adequate sanitation are essential for healthy living and sustainable urban development. However, rapid urbanization and fragmented service delivery continue to challenge sanitation planning and management in many cities. A Shit Flow Diagram (SFD) helps address this challenge by depicting how excreta flows through a city—from containment to treatment and reuse or disposal through simple graphical representation. It identifies critical service delivery gaps and guides decision-makers toward more effective and equitable urban sanitation planning.

The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has been at the forefront of promoting SFDs globally. It has contributed to the development of the SFD Graphic Generator, refined its data collection methodology through rigorous field validation, and supported the preparation of over 110 SFDs across India, Bangladesh, South Africa, Nepal, and the Caribbean.

About the CSE–CFAR Partnership
Recognizing the importance of evidence-based sanitation planning, the Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) has partnered with CSE to strengthen its technical capacity in preparing and interpreting SFDs. This collaboration will enhance CFAR professionals’ understanding of sanitation service chains and their ability to apply SFDs effectively for planning and advocacy in urban sanitation.

Aim: To equip participants with the knowledge and hands-on skills required to independently prepare and interpret Shit Flow Diagrams (SFDs) using globally recognized tools and methodologies.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the principles and methodology behind SFD preparation.
  • Identify and analyze the sanitation service chain—from containment to disposal or reuse.
  • Use the SFD Graphic Generator and data templates effectively.
  • Interpret and apply SFDs to inform planning and policy interventions in urban sanitation.

Training Methodology

The programme blends theory with practical learning through:

  • Presentations and video tutorials
  • Group exercises and peer discussions
  • Real-world data interpretation assignments
  • Interactive sessions for feedback and problem-solving

Training Coordinator

Harsh Yadava
Programme Officer,
Centre for Science and Environment
Mo. +91 8709638775
Email: harsh.yadava@cseindia.org

Training Director

Subrata Chakraborty
Director, Water Programme,
Centre for Science and Environment
Email: subrata.chakraborty@cseindia.org

 

 

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