If there is no running water for flushing toilets, what is the best way to control raw sewage?

Using a pit or privy toilet, which involves a dug-out hole, is indeed the most effective method for controlling raw sewage in the absence of running water for flushing toilets. This system allows for the safe disposal of human waste by burying it in a designated area, where it can decompose over time. The design of a pit toilet keeps waste separated from the living environment, minimizing exposure to pathogens and reducing the risk of contamination of nearby water sources.

Additionally, pit toilets are relatively simple and inexpensive to construct and maintain, making them suitable for use in various conditions, especially in remote locations where sewage infrastructure may not be feasible. The natural processes of decomposition in a pit toilet help manage odors and reduce the volume of waste.

In contrast, while composting toilets and flushing chemical toilets can also manage waste, they often require more resources or maintenance, particularly with transporting chemicals for chemical toilets. Portable toilets can be useful but are generally intended for short-term use, requiring regular servicing and waste removal. Therefore, in a situation where there is no running water, a pit or privy toilet stands out as the most practical and sustainable solution for raw sewage management.