I like the idea of doing something good with human waste instead of just flushing it. I got some ideas about this when I studied Permaculture. Humans bodies generate a lot of waste and use good water to get rid of it , but it can be put to better use.
Using Urine and Manure
Human urine can be diluted to make a good fertilizer. All kinds of manure can be used to generate methane (natural gas), composted for fertilizer or both. On our homestead, we will be using any manure we can collect and kitchen waste you wouldn’t normally compost to run a biodigester that creates methane and liquid fertilizer.
Water in the Mix
The amount of clean water that is used in the United States to flush waste is difficult for people in countries without toilets to understand. Here, clean water, after it’s been used in sinks, showers, and washing machines, is called “gray water.” Liquids from toilets and kitchen sinks are called “black water” because they have more organic material in them.
Both usually get sent to septic tanks or municipal treatment centers. However, gray water can be used for irrigation of trees and plants as long as it isn’t sprayed directly on what you plan to eat.
What We Wanted to Do with Human Waste
In our plans for the house we are building, we wanted to reduce the amount of water used, and reuse as much as possible. One way to minimize water usage is with composting toilets. While camping, you can use a 5-gallon bucket with sawdust in the bottom and a seat on top. This is a great idea; unfortunately, the government has authorities and regulations that make composting toilets difficult to use if you’re not camping.
The state of Florida actually permits composting toilets, but you have to use one of two that they have determined are acceptable. I looked into both types. The first was complicated and expensive to install. The second was simpler and less expensive but would still require a septic tank.
For the extra cost, it just didn’t make sense. Why use a composting toilet if you also have to use a septic tank? The best solution we were able to find was a toilet that used less water. It’s not ideal, but it is a lot cheaper!
Reusing Water
Florida also previously allowed people to use their gray water to irrigate, but in 2009 they decided to make it illegal. Now, you can’t reuse water from sinks, washing machines and showers without running it through an expensive treatment system. At least, you can still collect rainwater for irrigation!
End Result
Our new house won’t have a composting toilet inside. On the other hand, we will reduce our water usage and collect as much rainwater as we can. This will go to water our vegetable gardens, berry bushes and fruit trees. It’s not what I originally wanted, but it is what we can do legally.
Just remember, whatever your ideas, make sure they are legal. If you don’t, you may invest time and money in something the government will make you tear down. Just don’t give up if you run into obstacles—you can still find solutions that work!
That was educational. I think those working on homesteading in Florida would find that very useful info.