Poop to Prosperity: Advancing Human Excrement Composting Research Through Microbiome Science and Educational Innovations

Abstract

Exponential population growth and climate change have intensified the need for sustainable waste management solutions, particularly in treating human excrement. While traditional wastewater treatment systems offer benefits such as disease reduction and community sanitation, they are resource intensive, requiring substantial water, energy, and financial investments, and fail to address the sanitation needs of over 2 billion people, exacerbating environmental and public health challenges. This dissertation evaluates composting human excrement using composting toilets as a sustainable alternative, supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure equitable sanitation for all. Using molecular biology techniques including 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qPCR, along with more traditional culture-based methods, this dissertation investigates microbial dynamics and pathogen reduction in mesophilic composting processes. The primary study provides valuable insights into microbial succession patterns and pathogen management, revealing opportunities to enhance composting methods for increased safety and efficiency. Despite the growing adoption of composting toilets and their critical role in achieving Goal 6, further research into their microbial dynamics is an essential step for broader acceptance and efficacy. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and multi-omics tools are highlighted as promising avenues for advancing composting research. These technologies offer potential for bioprospecting, bioengineering, and optimizing composting processes to improve efficiency and pathogen control. This work also emphasizes the significance of educational initiatives, particularly model-based inquiry (MBI) curricula in higher education, in addressing waste management challenges and fostering acceptance of composting human excrement. An implementation strategy for a proposed “living laboratory” aims to unite and advance both research and education, establishing it as a central hub for sustainable human excrement management. By integrating research findings with educational efforts, this dissertation contributes to the development of innovative waste treatment practices that support global sanitation goals and promote environmental sustainability. This work advocates for a "browner revolution" in waste management, emphasizing the need for transformative approaches to tackle global sanitation and environmental challenges by advancing the use of excrement composting technologies