Brief Guide to Compost Toilets on a Narrowboat

Composting toilets can be a practical and environmentally-friendly option for waste management on a narrowboat. In this article, we’ll discuss key considerations when installing a composting toilet on your narrowboat, including types of composting toilets, installation costs, maintenance, and legal requirements.

Types of Composting Toilets

There are two main types of composting toilets suitable for narrowboats: self-contained and central/composting units. Self-contained units are more compact and suitable for smaller spaces, while central units, which separate the toilet from the composting unit, are better for larger narrowboats.

How Separating Toilets Work

Separating toilets operate by dividing waste materials in order to facilitate their proper disposal.

In the case of urine, separating toilets divert it into a separate container. This container can be transported to a designated facility known as an Elsan, where the urine is appropriately processed. Alternatively, the urine can be diluted and utilized as fertilizer when used on land. Urine contains Nitrogen, essential for plant growth. Personally, I like an outdoor wee so I can do my bit for the plants.

Solid waste, including toilet paper if present, is collected in a distinct container. To maintain dryness and aid in odor control, an additional material such as wooden cat litter or sawdust is often added to cover the waste.

Once the container for solid waste is full, its contents must be transferred to another location where composting takes place. It is important to note that the toilet unit itself does not engage in composting; it solely serves as a collection unit.

Installation Costs

The cost of installing a prebuilt unit on a narrowboat can vary depending on the type of toilet and any additional plumbing required, ranging from £300 to £2,000. Some units are free standing and do not require any plumbing.

There are also cheaper separators that can be purchased for around £50. These can be built into a DIY unit where you build the box frame, add a toilet seat, attach the separator, place your buckets / bags then sit down and let loose.

Maintenance

Composting toilets require regular maintenance to ensure they function properly and remain odor-free. This includes adding a bulking agent, such as sawdust or coconut coir, turning the compost regularly, and emptying the compost bin when full.

Legal Requirements

While there are no specific legal requirements for installing a composting toilet on a narrowboat in the UK, it’s important to ensure the compost is disposed of correctly. Composted human waste should not be thrown overboard, but instead should be composted further ashore or disposed of at a designated facility.

What Does the CRT Say About Composting Toilets?

They recommend using a collection service to dispose of solid wastes properly. The serivce they recommmend is: https://www.circularrevolution.org/

FAQ

1. What types of composting toilets are suitable for narrowboats?

   Self-contained and central/composting unit toilets are both suitable for use on narrowboats.

2. How much does it cost to install a composting toilet on a narrowboat?

   The cost of installing a composting toilet on a narrowboat can range from £50 for DIY build to £2,000 for a luxury, prebuilt unit.

3. Are there any legal requirements for using a composting toilet on a narrowboat?

   While there are no specific legal requirements, it’s important to dispose of the composted waste correctly and not throw it overboard.