The benefits of a compost toilet

Posted on August 8th, 2019

We don’t normally engage in toilet talk, however, in the name of recycling and regeneration we are breaking the rules. Last week we were lucky enough to learn how to make a wheelie bin compost toilet from the Grand Poobah of human manure – Rupert Faust.

Rupert is Environmental Engineer with six years of sewage treatment experience under his belt. In 2016, Rupert founded the Grounded Permaculture Action Party Inc. and a mission to share his knowledge to help regenerate the sacred connection to country and community with culture. Identifying a desire for Rupert’s knowledge within their community, local permaculture farm (High Valley Dawn) commenced work to get Rupert in town (Yeppoon).

Wanting to spread Rupert’s expertise to all those interested, High Valley Dawn applied for an FBA Bursary. The group’s passionate and unusual application secured funding enabling anyone and everyone attend the workshop free of charge. The workshop attracted many different community members (including landholders, educators, community garden carers, permaculture enthusiasts and beginners) all interested in learning how to reap the rewards of human manure.

So, what is human manure?

Human manure (also known as biosolids) can be defined as human urine and faecal matter that can be reused, after suitable treatment, as a soil conditioner/fertilizer.

Once treated biosolids are a rich source of essential plant nutrients that have the power to increase yields and improve soil condition. Containing more nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in a less soluble form than farmyard manure or artificial fertilizer these minerals stay in soil longer and are less likely to leach into groundwater or run-off and pollute waterways.

What’s involved in creating human manure?

The process of turning human waste into compost is simple. Better yet, if you can get your hands on some secondhand materials, constructing your very own wheelie bin toilet can cost around $80. However, it is very important to be aware of your states waste management regulations and guidelines.

While the process of turning human waste into compost is theoretically simple it is important to be aware of your states waste management regulations and guidelines. We recommended that you get in contact with your local council to learn more.

To learn more about building your very own wheelie bin toilet get in contact with Rupert via his Facebook page!