Unlike traditional toilets, which use significant amounts of water, properly built composting toilets are hygienic and completely dry, meaning they use no water at all. This innovation allows families in water-scarce regions to allocate their limited water resources to drinking, cooking, and bathing without sacrificing their sanitation needs.

San Miguel de Allende is known for its lush gardens, fountains, pools, and thermal water resorts — images that sharply contrast with the water reality faced by many residents living nearby in our semi-arid environment. Most of the families who live in Estancia de la Canal, a peri-urban community nestled in the foothills not far behind the La Lejona neighborhood in San Miguel, struggle with a severe lack of water. Despite being so close to urban San Miguel, the community is not connected to the municipal water supply. Years ago, a large “bordo” (water reservoir) was built in the community. But, without clear direction on who was responsible for this water resource, and little to no funds to support its operation and maintenance, the small reservoir fell into disrepair. Earlier this year, it was completely dry.