Composting

Composting is the final step in the production of fertilizer from human waste. Compost is a rich source of nitrogen, phosphorus and other fertilizer elements. Composting is a well known simple technology that is fairly easily implemented in Africa.

Human waste from humanure toilets, collected by the sanitation workers, is transported in plastic receptacles to a composting facility. Bins measuring 6 feet by 6 feet have constructed and are used as active composting piles. Composting occurs over a 6 -12 month time frame. Once a compost bin has completed its process, the compost (fertilizer) is removed and transported to local Jatropha trees for use in growing Jatropha nuts.

We pay local workers to construct the composting bins, fill the bins with human waste and organic cover material, monitor the composting process temperatures and water content, and remove and transport the compost to the Jatropha plantations.

These workers now have money for goods and services, including healthcare and education. It is part of the process of helping to develop a self-sustaining people.