SIP project story: x-runner reports improvements in its sanitation pick-up system since being supported by iF
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"Imagine using buckets or latrines as toilets daily, without any water or hygiene."
While unsafely managed sanitation is unimaginable in Europe, it is the everyday reality in some other parts of the world, such as Lima, Peru. The certified social enterprise x-runner works towards providing sustainable sanitation solutions in poor regions of Peru. In June 2018, they were awarded with the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE and can report some major steps forward: “Since winning the prize, x-runner has implemented improvements in its pick-up system to increase efficiency and decrease operational costs”, says Co-Founder and x-runner president Isabel Medem.
What many do not know: Lima, the capital of Peru, is the second driest capital in the world! The biggest issue: The conventional water based sewerage system cannot reach all of its population and so about two million people are without proper and secure sanitation. In this misery, people use latrines, buckets, or defecate outside. As a result, there are polluted waters and lands – families’ homes and neighborhoods become inhabitable.
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What many do not know:
Lima, the capital of Peru, is the second driest capital in the world! The biggest issue: The conventional water based sewerage system cannot reach all of its population and so about two million people are without proper and secure sanitation. In this misery, people use latrines, buckets, or defecate outside. As a result, there are polluted waters and lands – families’ homes and neighborhoods become inhabitable.
![](https://images.ctfassets.net/9el74s703hin/7FsuoeDA0kUUqV1mkfxPrm/5334ef458d95c09331f8b7743b33a8f1/246851_21266__xrunner_collage.jpg?w=2304&h=1536&fl=progressive&q=70&fm=jpg)
The spread
of many diseases, especially diarrhea – which can kill more people than malaria or HIV – is a logical consequence. Tragically, around 760,000 children are affected, many of them under five years. x-runner aims to provide access to safely managed sanitation, which is often sadly lacking in low-income households in urban spaces.
x-runner’ sanitation system offers immediate, effective and reliable solutions by installing waterless toilets or collecting and managing the organic waste generated with the aim of improving the health and quality of life.
“The organization currently serves more than 900 households, which means that more than 4500 children and their families enjoy a safer home with the peace of mind they deserve”, says Isabel. Supported by iF, they hope to continue this way!
The jury for the next round of the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE is meeting right now and soon the next “supported by iF” projects will be announced! Stay tuned…