I am very intrigued by the idea of composting human excrement. Joseph Jenkins has been evangelizing this method of recycling for many years now, with his book The Humanure Handbook. In it, Jenkins describes a simple system for safely composting poop using thermophilic methods, which basically means that the compost needs to reach a certain temperature in order to properly kill the pathogens. The resulting compost, when properly processed, is safe to use even on vegetable gardens (Jenkins has been doing it for over 20 years). Not only does this increase the fertility of our soils, it also significantly decreases pollution. When combined with the composting of other organic matter, the impact could be tremendous. Poop could save the world!
For a crash course in humanure composting, including a documentary about bringing this concept to Haiti, check out Jenkins' videos at http://humanurehandbook.com/videos.html.
Here's the challenge or the catch, depending on how you look at it. "Above-ground sewage treatment" is illegal in many parts of the United States because of the health hazard to the community if it is not done properly. Mustering up the courage to help guide and educate the Board of Health in your county, city, or state and lead the legislative reform is not something to be taken lightly, yet it is a leadership opportunity that matters. This is one of the next steps for me, in my long "to-do" list of things that will make a difference. I'm not especially looking forward to it, but I'm sure I will be stretched and learn a lot in the process.
Have you noticed any trends with these simple yet effective methods of environmental stewardship? Joel Salatin hit the nail on the head with his book, Everything I Want to do is Illegal. More thoughts on this to come...
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