Year of publication: 2008

Black, M. and Fawcett, B. (2008). The last taboo : opening the door on the global sanitation crisis. London, UK, Earthscan and UNICEF. –224 p. : fig., photogr. - Includes refernces and index. - ISBN 9781844075447 (paperback) ISBN 9781844075430 (hardback)

This book breaks many silences surrounding today's sanitation crisis. It de-couples the 'water and sanitation' connection, and argues that - to make real progress - we need a radical new mind-set. In the byways of the developing world, much is quietly happening on the excretory frontier. This book takes us on a tour of those endeavours, in the company of today's sanitary heroes. In 2008, the International Year of Sanitation, the authors bring - with humour and impeccable taste - this awkward subject to a wider audience than the world of international filth usually commands. They seek the elimination of the 'Great Distaste' so that people without political clout or economic muscle can claim their right to a dignified and hygienic place to 'go'. Contents: A short history of the unmentionable; Runaway Urbanization and the rediscovery of filth; In dignity and health; Pit stops: the expanding technological menu; Selling sanitation to new users; Shitty livelihoods, or what?; Bringing on the new sanitary revolution. The book is an introduction for practitioners, students, activists and policy makers needing to understand the sanitation crisis.

Price: Paperback £18.99 (€25.41) [pre-order £17.09 (€22.86)]; Hardback £65.00 (€86.98)

Publication date: April 2008

Available from: Earthscan

Tags: policies & legislation