Inspired by the New York Times Green Inc. blog, we decided to investigate a bit more into what this composting toilet stuff was all about. With the average American using over 7,000 gallons of water each year just by flushing the toilet, we thought there might a greener way to do one's business. Waterless composting toilets seem like a strange idea, but it scores major points for being green friendly and cost effective.
Here's How It Works: These toilets compost and dehydrate human waste and produce a product that can be used on flowerbeds or as other soil additives. The process uses little to no water and is not connected to an external sewage system.
This all may seem a little too dirty, but the toilets are extremely sanitary and odorless (because of the air flow built into the system). Apparently, all you have to do is clean out the bottom composting tray that contains humus - a nutrient rich soil - once every couple of weeks and you're good to go.
(We have read one complaint about a strange whiff from a customer, but that doesn't seem to be the norm.)
The toilets themselves come in several shapes and sizes so you can find one that fits right into your bathroom. We're intrigued that more and more cities are joining in on the composting fun.
We at HuffPost Green have never tried a composting toilet. Have you? Let us know what you think in the comments, and take this poll.