ODF (Open Defecation Free)

Open defecation (also used in the opposite meaning as open defecation free (ODF)) is the human practice of defecating outside (in the open environment) rather than into a toilet. People may choose fields, bushes, forests, ditches, streets, canals or other open space for defecation. They do so because either they do not have a toilet readily accessible or due to traditional cultural practices. The practice is common where sanitation infrastructure and services are not available. Even if toilets are available, behavior change efforts may still be needed to promote the use of toilets. The term “open defecation free” (ODF) is used to describe communities that have shifted to using a toilet instead of open defecation. This can happen for example, after community-led total sanitation programs have been implemented.