Obviously, sanitation development in the framework of the Netherlands International Development needs to be seen in the overall development: there are many crucial players and onsite sanitation projects that set the tone. For a long time, the WHO Monograph of Wagner and Lanoix was the only book available on the topic. Important players are amongst others: LSHTM (with the Ross Institute), IRCO, OXFAM and the University of Dundee. In the Netherlands, Wouter van Dieren, member of the Club of Rome was a source of inspiration. 

In the Netherlands, Dr. Sarphati is often quoted as a source of inspiration. His contribution is elaborated on the site of Waternet. More info on the conditions of the Netherlands can be found in The Dutch Great Stink.