While flush toilets may not be suitable for every environment, particularly in remote, mountainous, arid and cold regions where thick frozen soil complicates pipeline installation and construction is hindered by harsh weather conditions. Moreover, traditional flush toilets generate a higher volume of waste, leading to increased costs associated with the transportation and treatment of waste.

UNICEF, in conjunction with China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA), has constructed a Climate-resilient Eco-Dry Toilet in rural school/community center in Huzhu County, Qinghai Province, which features a climate-resilient ecological toilet system designed to accommodate diverse needs while minimizing environmental impact:

- Three separate toilet units cater to men, women, and those requiring barrier-free access, ensuring inclusivity. An accessible elevator facilitates use by individuals with disabilities.

- Employing a source separation approach, the feces collection and treatment system distinguishes between organic waste and urine. Biological fermentation converts toilet waste into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, while urine is collected separately for recycling or safe disposal.

- A rainwater collection system harvests water from precipitation and enable its reuse after filtration and disinfection.

- The project integrates a "solar air heating system" as the primary heating source, supplemented by air energy heat pumps, and incorporates insulation measures to minimize energy consumption and carbon emissions.

This Climate-resilient Eco-Dry toilet not only enhances sanitation accessibility for the local community, including residents and students, but also mitigates pollution risks through waste source separation, promoting resource recycling. The energy-saving solutions, non-flush design and rainwater collection system further contribute to carbon-neutrality goals.