Lexi Webster
Composting toilets are an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional flush toilets, which are ideal for off-grid homes and remote locations. They are waterless toilets that use healthy bacteria and other macro and microorganisms to decompose waste, which can then be used as compost. In Australia, there are a variety of options for those interested in composting toilets, from DIY builds to commercially available toilets. This includes the Cuddy, a portable composting toilet, and the Green Loo, which is Australia's largest manufacturer of composting toilets. For those interested in building their own composting toilet, it is important to carefully plan and prepare to ensure it is fully functional and durable.
Characteristics and Values of Composting Toilets in Australia
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Wood, screws, nails, hinges, and tools like a cordless screwdriver, hammer, and jigsaw. |
| Installation | Fixed to the wall or floor-mounted. Ventilation is required to minimise odours. |
| Design | Single or batch containers for waste decomposition. |
| Usage | Separate solids and liquids to reduce odours. |
| Maintenance | Emptying intervals depend on the number of users and usage frequency. |
| Advantages | Cheaper, eco-friendly, water conservation, no chemicals or smells. |
| Disadvantages | Potential drawbacks include the need for careful planning and preparation during installation. |
| Compost Usage | Can be used as fertiliser in gardens but not for growing vegetables. Bury under at least 10 cm of soil. |
| Commercial Options | Cuddy, Green Loo, Water Wally |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right materials
When it comes to choosing the right materials for your composting toilet, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the type of composting toilet you want, as this will dictate the materials needed. For example, a batch composting toilet consists of multiple containers, whereas a single-container toilet has just one. This will impact the amount of space required and the complexity of the building process.
Next, consider the materials that will come into direct contact with human waste. It is essential to choose materials that are robust and can withstand the stresses of use. While wood is an option, it can swell in damp conditions and is susceptible to mould. Instead, opt for materials that are moisture-resistant or can be well-impregnated to prevent liquid absorption.
The design of your composting toilet will also influence the materials you choose. For example, if you plan to separate urine and solids, you will need a liquids bottle and a solids container. The size of these containers will depend on how frequently you can empty them and how many people will use the toilet. Additionally, if you intend to install the toilet permanently, ventilation is crucial to minimise odours and reduce excess moisture.
When it comes to tools and hardware, ensure you have all the necessary items before starting the build. This may include screws, nails, hinges, and specific tools like a cordless screwdriver, hammer, and jigsaw.
Finally, be mindful of the materials used for any additional features, such as a urine diverter or a ventilation system. These components should also be made from durable, moisture-resistant materials to ensure the longevity of your composting toilet.
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Installation
The first step in installing a composting toilet is to decide on its location. Will it be fixed to the wall or standing on the floor? Consider the ventilation needed to minimise odours. If installing a commercially available composting toilet, follow the manufacturer's instructions. For example, the Cuddy™ composting toilet can be installed permanently or left portable. It has four reinforced screw-down points in the base for easy installation. The manufacturer recommends venting the toilet to reduce excess moisture and speed up the breakdown of solids.
If you are building your own composting toilet, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Choose materials that are robust and moisture-resistant or can be well-impregnated. Wood, for example, can swell in damp places and grow mould. You will need tools such as a cordless screwdriver, hammer, and jigsaw.
The most common type of waterless toilet is the composting toilet, where waste decomposes in a container. These can be continuous, batch, or self-contained systems. Continuous systems have a single container that never needs to be fully emptied, as compost can be removed from the end-product chamber. Batch systems have two or more containers that are alternated, allowing the compost in one container to break down without the addition of fresh waste. Self-contained systems are typically used in portable toilets.
If you are installing a continuous system, the container is permanently fitted under the toilet seat. For batch systems, the full containers need to be replaced with empty ones, either by disconnecting them from under the toilet seat or moving the seat over a new container. Some batch systems use a turntable beneath the toilet for collecting waste, saving space and simplifying container changeover.
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Separating solids and liquids
When building a composting toilet, one of the most important considerations is the separation of solids and liquids. This is key to reducing odours and facilitating easier waste disposal and composting.
The separation of liquids and solids is achieved through a urine diverter or separator, which ensures that urine is collected in a canister or bottle at the front of the toilet, while solid waste is collected in a separate container or bucket at the back. This separation prevents the formation of the "'dump-station-burp' smell" caused by urine in the solids bucket, as well as issues with cleaning, disposal, and pests.
The design of the toilet should ensure that the liquids and solids are adequately separated. For example, the Cuddy™ composting toilet features an intuitive bowl design that directs liquids into a bottle and solids into a bin.
The separation of solids and liquids also reduces the need for frequent emptying of the toilet. Excess liquids in the solids bucket add bulk and require more covering material, such as sawdust or carbon-rich material, to prevent odours. By keeping the liquids and solids separate, you can stretch the time between emptying the toilet.
Additionally, the separated liquids, or urine, can be used as a high-quality fertiliser for nitrogen-tolerant plants, further contributing to sustainable waste management.
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Composting process
The composting process in a composting toilet involves the breakdown of human waste into organic material, known as humus, through the action of microorganisms. This process is similar to that of a regular compost heap, but with a focus on ensuring the safe treatment and sanitation of human waste. Here is a step-by-step guide to understanding the composting process in an Australian context:
- Collection and Storage: The first step is to choose an appropriate container or chamber to collect and store human waste. This can be a purpose-built composting toilet, a dry toilet, or a simple DIY setup using a 200-litre drum or similar container. The chamber should be well-ventilated to allow airflow and equipped with a urine diversion system to separate liquid waste. Ensure the chamber is located in a dry, shaded area, protected from extreme weather conditions.
- Carbon-Rich Bulking Agents: To ensure effective composting, it is essential to add carbon-rich bulking agents to the human waste. This can include materials such as
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Safety precautions
When making a composting toilet in Australia, it is important to follow safety precautions to ensure the safe and effective use of the toilet. Here are some key safety considerations:
Design and Installation
It is important to carefully plan the design and installation of your composting toilet to ensure it meets safety standards. In Australia, some commercially available composting toilets have approval for use in most parts of the country, and they may need to be certified by a qualified person. If you are building your own composting toilet, ensure you have the appropriate skills and knowledge to do so safely. This includes understanding the required materials, tools, and construction methods.
Disease-causing Pathogens
One of the primary safety concerns with composting toilets is the presence of disease-causing pathogens in the composted end-product. It is important to assume that the compost may contain residual pathogens, and take appropriate precautions when handling it. Always wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a mask, when handling the compost. Ensure that the compost is properly decomposed and matured before use. The degree of decomposition and pathogen destruction is influenced by ambient conditions like temperature, moisture, and pH levels, which can be challenging to monitor and control.
Compost Usage
The composted end-product from your toilet should be used with caution. Do not use the compost for growing vegetables or crops for sale. Instead, follow local regulations and guidelines for compost usage. You can use the compost as fertiliser for non-edible plants, burying it under at least 10 cm of soil. Alternatively, dispose of the compost according to local council regulations.
Maintenance and Odour Control
Proper maintenance of your composting toilet is essential for safety and hygiene. Ensure that the toilet is regularly cleaned and maintained, following any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. To reduce odours, separate solids from liquids, and ensure the solids are adequately dried. Some composting toilets have urine diversion systems to control excess moisture. Additionally, adding a carbon additive like sawdust, coconut coir, or peat moss after each use can help create air pockets, promote decomposition, and reduce potential odours.
User Guidelines
Provide clear instructions and guidelines for users of the composting toilet to ensure safe and proper usage. Educate users on the importance of maintaining proper hygiene, such as washing hands after using the toilet. If the toilet is in a public or shared space, ensure users understand any specific precautions or guidelines, especially regarding the handling and disposal of the composted end-product.
By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure that your composting toilet is safe, effective, and environmentally friendly.
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Frequently asked questions
Composting toilets don't use water to flush away waste, saving water resources and keeping pollutants out of waterways. They are ideal for homes off the sewerage network and remote locations where water is in short supply. The waste turns into compost, which can be used as fertiliser for your garden.
First, decide on the design, size, and materials that best suit your space and budget. You will need a range of tools and materials, including wood, screws, nails, hinges, and tools such as a cordless screwdriver, hammer, and jigsaw. Consider whether you want to separate solids and liquids to reduce odour formation. You will also need to plan how the toilet will be installed, whether it will be fixed to the wall or stand on the floor, and what kind of ventilation is needed.
Building your own composting toilet can have disadvantages. For example, you will need to empty the waste regularly, and there may be concerns about the safety of the composted end product. It is recommended to assume that the compost contains residual disease-causing pathogens, so take precautions such as wearing protective clothing when handling the compost and following local regulations for disposal.
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