WASH for everyone, everywhere: marketplaces as a multiplex pathway for improving inclusive access to water, sanitation, and hygiene in Vanuatu.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for access to safe WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) practices, especially in non-household settings. This study examined the COVID response measures and WASH infrastructure and services situation in and around 14 marketplaces in three provinces in the Republic of Vanuatu during the pandemic. A total of 144 surveys and 42 interviews were undertaken with market stakeholders and government officials, including structured observations.

Water circulation and impact on water quality in the southwest of Efate Island, Vanuatu.

In Small Island Developing States (SIDS), water pollution is not monitored or assessed frequently enough to fully understand the processes, impacts of water quality issues and what solutions are available This study investigated flushing time in Erakor lagoon and Port Vila Bay, Vanuatu using a numerical model developed in Delft3D. Microbial contamination by Escherichia coli was detected in multiple locations in the lagoon system with counts exceeding thresholds related to human health concerns. Modelling demonstrated a poor flushing time overall with a further decrease as the influence of waves and wind increased, especially in Vila Bay.

Assessment of biodegradable chelating agents in the phytoextraction of heavy metals from multi-metal contaminated soil.

A pot incubation experiment under natural conditions was designed to investigate the effects of three biodegradable chelating agents, namely; the [S,S]-isomer of ethylenediamine disuccinate (EDDS), citric acid (CA), and tetrasodium N,N-Bis(carboxymethyl)-L-glutamate acid (GLDA), on two plant species (Brassica juncea and Brassica rapa) in terms of plant foliar growth, dry matter yield, and heavy metal (HM) accumulation. Both plant species exhibited diminished growth and symptoms of phytotoxicity under HM stress. The application of EDDS and CA affected plant foliar growth, biomass production, and led to the development of chlorotic lesions on leaves.

Faecal contamination of groundwater in rural Vanuatu: prevalence and predictors.

Groundwater is an important source of water for coastal communities in Pacific Island Countries. This study assessed the prevalence and predictors of faecal contamination in groundwater sources across 11 islands in Vanuatu. Escherichia coli was detected in 49% of sources and E.