Remote Restrooms: New Methods Of Waste Management In Remote Locations

Abstract

The objective of this project is to identify and solve problems involved with human waste handling in remote areas by researching current solutions and developing new ones in order to increase the standards of living in these remote areas. At its end, the goal is to have applied these solutions to design a restroom facility that is low-waste, low-cost, low-energy, and lowmaintenance for use in remote areas. The facility will service an assumed 120-person population. Waste is separated at the source using 12 urine-diverting toilets so that each type may be processed separately. Urine is processed by extracting nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous with various reagents while solid waste is processed using black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). The total capital investment for building the facilities and treatment processes is about $99,000, which takes into account purchase of materials, shipping, and installation costs. This means each unit costs a little over $8000, which is more than expected. However, the process yields products that rake in just under $69,000 per year and only costs $23,000 to run annually. The higher cost of the units is therefore justified by the 35% return-on-investment and the improved quality of living for residents.