Lowtech Graph lists low-tech options for every need of a home. Here you can compare them, find tutorials to build them, and link them together into a circular system. Why low-tech?
Managed thermophilic humanure composting
Passive
One of 2 ways to meet this need. Cost, carbon, footprint and rankings are relative to other solutions for the same need, not absolute.
A carefully managed compost heap for the solids from dry toilets, kept hot and checked until it is safe. The heat of the working heap kills germs, and time finishes the job. It turns human waste into useful compost on site, instead of paying for it to be pumped out and taken away.
Composting bin/structure: 15-25 years depending on material (timber vs. block)
Embodied carbon
Low
Space / material use
Medium
Output timing
Continuous process
Skill to repair
Basic
Regulation (FR example)
Dry toilets are explicitly permitted (arrete du 7 septembre 2009 modifie) but must be declared to the SPANC, and byproducts must be composted on the property without any discharge or nuisance to neighbours.
Levels are relative to the other options for this need, not absolute. Fewer dots is lighter.
Managed thermophilic humanure composting (This page) Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Low · Skill to build: Basic · Upkeep: Regular · Change to daily life: Occasional · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if you use a dry toilet and want its solids turned into compost on site.
Periodic sludge pump-out Can I use it? Not in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Medium · Skill to build: Specialist · Upkeep: Light · Change to daily life: None · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if you have a septic tank or a small treatment plant and want the sludge taken away by a licensed service.
Sources
General composting-infrastructure durability consensus
Limitations of this page
We don’t list sizing or quantities, as the yield of each technique depends on the quality of its build. The catalogue compares options but doesn’t dimension them. Regulatory notes are indicative, with a French example, and need to be confirmed locally.