Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a groundbreaking waterless toilet powered by mushrooms, creating what they describe as a “beautiful experience” even in an outhouse setting. The innovative MycoToilet, located at the university’s Botanical Garden, utilizes mycelia, the root network of mushrooms, to convert human waste into compost. This eco-friendly toilet separates liquids from solids, with the solid waste entering a mycelium-lined compartment that absorbs 90% of odour-causing compounds.
Steven Hallam, a professor at the university, explains that the mycelium liner not only reduces odour but also improves decomposition conditions, creating a more sustainable waste management system. The modular toilet requires minimal maintenance and is expected to produce soil and liquid fertilizer annually.
Lead by Joseph Dahmen, the project aims to redefine the concept of composting toilets by incorporating sustainable materials and innovative design elements. The toilet structure features prefabricated timber panels, a skylight, a green roof supporting local plants, and a low-power fan for ventilation. Users have likened the experience to a relaxing Scandinavian sauna.
The MycoToilet serves as a “living laboratory,” where researchers monitor the performance of the mushroom liner and explore the potential of different mushroom varieties in waste management. By engaging users in citizen science, the project aims to convert the liner into usable compost to support local plant life.
Dahmen emphasizes the importance of rethinking traditional wastewater treatment methods, viewing waste as a valuable resource that can benefit local ecosystems. While large-scale wastewater plants remain essential, there is a growing movement towards waste resource recovery systems to create a more circular economy.