Waterless composting toilets: A green alternative?
- Nicole LaJeunesse
- May 9
- 2 min read
In light of the Town's exploration of alternatives to the sewer project, Regenerating Paradise has been researching potential solutions. One such solution is the waterless composting toilet. We had heard that the technology for large-capacity composting toilets had advanced to the point where they were feasible for indoor use in buildings and public spaces. Curious about the possibilities, Regenerating Paradise invited Eemili Palo, U.S. Manager of the Waterless Toilet Shop, to Paradise to tell us about waterless toilets and the impact these systems could have here on the Ridge.
On April 30, 2025, Regenerating Paradise and about a dozen community members gathered in the Community Room at St. Nicholas Episcopal Church to hear Eemeli speak about waterless composting toilets as an alternative to standard flush toilets that rely on sewer or septic systems.
What is a waterless composting toilet?
Unlike flush toilets, composting toilets work just fine off-grid. They don't require any plumbing and can work either indoors or outdoors. Eemeli swears there is no smell. He even prefers composting toilets over other options -- why use clean, fresh water every time you flush? With a waterless composting toilet, the waste is collected in specially designed containers where it composts over months until it turns into safe, nutrient-rich organic material.
Reception
The concept was met with general positivity, with some questions about feasibility, safety, and public acceptance. Eemeli admits that building codes and regulations can pose a challenge. It's also easier to design waterless toilets into new construction rather than retrofit one into an existing structure. One strategy could be to initiate a pilot project -- perhaps in one of the area parks -- as proof-of-concept for skeptical county and state officials.
The other concern: What do you do with the resulting compost? As long as it's fully composted, it's safe to use in yards and gardens -- but will people go along with that? Public acceptance is likely to be an issue.
More to come
Look for more educational events sponsored by Regenerating Paradise, coming soon to a community room near you. Until then, what's your opinion on waterless composting toilets?
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