Eco lo g i c a l To i l e t s 127
Build a simple toilet for tree planting
Level the ground and place a concrete ring beam (see page 122) where you
want the toilet. Inside the ring beam, dig a pit 1 meter deep. Secure the ring
beam in place. Make a platform to put over the pit and ring beam. Build a light
shelter for privacy 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 a handful 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.
• Fill the hole with 15 cm 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
to another place, dig another hole, and do it again.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012