Why Are Compost Toilets Crucial for Disaster Relief?

As natural disasters become increasingly frequent and severe, the importance of being prepared cannot be overstated. Access to modern sanitation can be disrupted during emergencies, making compost toilets an essential alternative. This blog explores the benefits of compost toilets, such as their water independence, portability, and odor control. Discover how a compost toilet like the NOMAD by OGO™ can provide reliable sanitation in any situation—whether you’re preparing for a storm, living off-grid, or building a tiny house. Don't wait for disaster to strike; take control of your sanitation needs today!
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Devastation during a natural disaster-Hurricane Helene 2024-Source NPR-Img Credit to Getty Images

Be Prepared for All Situations with a Compost Toilet.

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Natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and volcanic eruptions are happening more frequently and with greater intensity. In fact, according to the UN, the frequency of these events has surged by 80% over the past four decades, making preparation more important than ever. When preparing for these natural disasters, most people focus on food, water, and electricity. But one important aspect is often overlooked—access to a working toilet. The consequences of lacking proper sanitation during disasters can be dire, leading to health risks and compounding the challenges of recovery.

During disasters, access to modern sanitation can be lost. Gravity-fed sewage systems might still work, but homes with well water or electric sewage pumps could find themselves without functioning toilets. In these situations, a compost toilet becomes an essential alternative to avoid reverting to unhygienic methods like using buckets for waste.

Why Compost Toilets Are Perfect for Disaster Relief

Compost toilets are the perfect sanitation solutions to utilize when you do not have power. The NOMAD by OGO™ is a great example of a compost toilet that works perfectly in the case of natural disasters. 

  • Power Independence:
    • The NOMAD by OGO™ operates without electricity, making it functional during power outages.
  • Effective Waste Management:
    • The system diverts urine into a separate bottle for easy disposal, reducing the risk of contamination.
  • Odor Control:
    • Layering materials such as sawdust, coco coir, or peat moss over solid waste helps prevent odors and kickstart the composting process.
  • Liquid-Solid Separation:
    • Compost toilets efficiently separate liquid from solid waste, eliminating sewage odors before they can develop.
  • Versatility:
    • Suitable for various emergency scenarios, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters.
    • The NOMAD by OGO™ accommodates a variety of layering materials—such as litter, sawdust, coco coir, and peat moss—ensuring flexibility in waste management regardless of available resources.
  • Easy to Use:
    • Simple design allows for straightforward operation, even in stressful situations.
  • Sustainable Solution:
    • Composting waste helps reduce environmental impact while providing a reliable sanitation option.

    Common Questions-

    Using a Compost Toilet During a Disaster

    "Do compost toilets work if I lose electricity?"
    • Yes, the NOMAD by OGO™ requires no electricity. The bowl is designed for urine separation and with a layering method, the solids waste is simply covered. There are compost toilets that require electricity like the OGO™ ORIGIN Compost Toilet System which are also great options for more comfort, convenience, and longevity if you are fortunate enough to still have power. 
    "I have no water available, can I still use the compost toilet?"
    • Yes, the primary function of a compost toilet is to separate urine from solid waste and keep the solid waste dry, making the absence of water essential for proper operation.
    “I live in my car; does the compost toilet take up much space?”
      • No, The NOMAD by OGO™ is is highly portable, weighing just 12 lbs (5.4 kg) and measuring 15.4 inches deep (39.1 cm), 13 inches wide (33 cm), and 12.375 inches tall (31.4 cm). Its compact size makes it easy to store under benches or tuck away on the floor in front of the back seat.
        "We lost our entire home; is a compost toilet a good option for a Tiny House? "
          • Yes, compost toilets are an ideal solution for tiny houses, offering both sustainability and space-saving design. In more permanent conditions, the OGO™ ORIGIN Compost Toilet System may be a better fit for its comfort, size, and convenience. It would need to run off a 12V power system like a generator or battery. 

          Be Prepared with a Compost Toilet

          In the chaos of a natural disaster, access to a reliable toilet may be the last thing on your mind, but it is undeniably one of the most essential needs. When you lose access to critical utilities like power, water, and sewage, every resource counts. Compost toilets offer a dependable solution for maintaining sanitation when it matters most. As you prepare for storms, embrace off-grid living, or design your tiny house, consider the profound impact a compost toilet can have—not just on your comfort, but on your dignity and health. In uncertain times, taking control of your sanitation needs is not just smart; it's a vital step towards resilience and peace of mind.

          Learn more about compost toilets and explore other helpful articles by visiting our resource center at learn.ogotoilet.com.

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