Sanitation and Cleanliness for a Healthy Environment 35
Simple compost toilet for tree planting
This toilet makes fertilizer for planting trees. It is simple to build, and is made so the
shelter can be moved when the pit is full.
This toilet is best where there is space and a desire to plant trees. It is also good for
places with high groundwater, because the pit is shallow. Covering the toilet pit with
soil and planting a tree there helps to decompose the waste.
This is a great way to start an orchard of fruit trees or other useful trees. If you do
not plan to plant trees, use a different option.
To make a simple compost toilet for tree planting
Level the ground and place a concrete ring beam (see page 33) where you want the
toilet. Inside the ring beam, dig a pit 1 meter deep, and secure the ring beam in place.
Make a platform to put over the pit. Build a light shelter that will be easy to move.
To use and maintain this toilet
• Before using, put dry leaves or straw in
the pit. This will help feces decompose.
• Add 2 handfuls of soil mixed with
ashes or dry leaves after every use.
• When the pile gets too high, stir it
down with a stick.
• Sweep and wash the platform often.
Be careful not to get much water in
the pit.
• When the hole is nearly full, remove
the shelter, platform, and ring beam.
• Top up the hole with 30 centimeters
of soil mixed with plant matter.
After several weeks, the waste will
settle. Add more soil and plant
matter, water, and plant a tree. Fruit
trees grow well and bear safe and
abundant fruit.
• Move the shelter, platform, and ring beam.
Dig another hole, and do it again.