Blog | eRIC

Sanitary continuity in crisis and emergencies: an underestimated factor in resilience

Written by eRIC | Feb 26, 2026 7:44:54 AM

Earthquake deployment in Japan
That this need is not theoretical is evidenced by international practical examples. Following the earthquake on Japan's Noto Peninsula in early 2024, waterless sealing toilets were deployed in mobile emergency units where regular facilities were unavailable.

The systems were part of multi-purpose vehicles that can be deployed both in peacetime and in emergencies. This application received an award in Japan within a national program focused on disaster resilience and sustainability. The example underscores the importance of autonomous sanitation systems within broader crisis structures.

Attention to this theme is also growing in the Netherlands. Safety regions, municipalities and organizations are working on emergency support points, temporary shelters and facilities for situations in which vital infrastructure is temporarily lost.

Technology as a foundation for hygienic autonomy
An important development within this domain is the emergence of waterless, lockable toilet systems that have their origins in the medical sector. These systems work with a patented sealing process in which waste is automatically thermally sealed in a special high-barrier film liner after use.

This creates a completely sealed and hygienic waste stream with no chance of odor or leakage. The absence of rinse water and chemical additives makes these systems deployable in locations without permanent facilities, such as temporary shelters, field sites and emergency stations

The combination of autonomy, hygiene and controlled waste disposal makes this technology suitable for situations where sanitary reliability is essential but infrastructure is lacking or under pressure.

From recreation to professional use
Although waterless seal toilets were originally used primarily in the RV and caravan sector, they are increasingly being used in professional environments.

In the Netherlands, these systems are being used for crisis preparedness and temporary shelter locations. Combined with mobile shower facilities, this creates a flexible package of sanitary facilities for a variety of situations

Fixedbuilt-in units, mobile units and fully portable variants make it possible to deploy facilities on a scalable basis: from individual support to complete sanitary facilities for larger groups.


Role of Clesana Centrum and integral solutions
Within this development, Clesana Centrum fulfills the role as the Dutch point of contact for Swiss waterless seal toilets and related applications. In cooperation with Renotoi, integrated sanitary solutions are offered, including mobile shower facilities, for use within emergency and crisis situations.

By combining practical experience from both recreational and professional applications, an offering is created that meets the diverse requirements within crisis management, shelter and operational support.

Demonstrations during eRIC 2026
During eRIC 2026, Clesana Centrum together with Renotoi will present various sanitary solutions for professional emergency applications. Visitors can attend demonstrations of waterless toilet systems and portable shower facilities on April 22 and 23, focusing on practical deployment within crisis and emergency scenarios.

This blog post is a contribution from Clesana Centrum, official sales point, showroom & installer of Clesena in the Netherlands. Visit Clesana Centrum during eRIC at booth #E5.