Theory-anchored conceptual framework for managing environmental sanitation in developing countries: Literature review

Abstract

Abstract The phenomenon of poor environmental sanitation, which is a global challenge, but most so in developing countries, requires that the solution to it be both conceptually and theoretically sound and clear enough for translation into practice. The purpose of this paper was to develop a theory-anchored conceptual framework to guide Environmental Sanitation Management (ESM) in developing countries. Data were obtained from scholarly databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar as well as grey literature through predetermined material selection and screening processes, and analysed qualitatively using the narrative, configurative synthesis approach. The review revealed that, among the key conceptual issues in ESM are environmental sanitation education (software), regulation (software) and infrastructure (hardware), which are managed by the government and private sector stakeholders, using various frameworks. However, while the existing frameworks recognise important concepts and variables, the frameworks are unclear regarding the theories underpinning the concepts and the relationships among the variables, thus, making it difficult for one to establish the synergies among the issues to be translated into practice. Arguing that inadequate application of systems thinking, participatory processes and behavioural change mechanisms is the key missing link in the previous ESM frameworks, a theory-anchored ESM framework is developed to fill this gap. It is recommended that conceptualisation and implementation of ESM programmes in developing countries be driven by a framework of hardware and software solutions that are underpinned by the systems, behavioural change and participation theories in order to comprehensively address the complexities of ESM in developing countries for sustainable development.