Innovation for collection and processing of organic waste

Purpose and goal

The purpose of this project was to investigate how a bioreactor for collection and conversion of organic waste, such as urine and faeces, should be designed to fit into different home environments. In the project we have developed a product for the Swedish market and used CAD visualizations in communication with potential partners. Several collaborations with other partners have been initiated based on results from this project and a parallel Vinnova founded projekt called The Flow. The objective of the project, to enable future tests in housing and events, has thus been met.

Expected results and effects

In this project we wanted to demonstrate the possibility to integrate a new sanitation system that closes the nutrient cycle into the home environment. The product developed in the project is a urine-diverting toilet that uses sensors, dehydration technology and a digital platform for operation and service. The solution has shown that it is possible to create a new consumer product based on circular principles. The project has led to further collaborations and has proven there are needs and demands from consumers, construction companies and municipalities in the Swedish market.

Planned approach and implementation

In order to understand the obstacles, driving forces and user needs in the Swedish market we have made interviews with users and retailers of various toilet solutions. Workshops with architects have led to better knowledge about city planning and architectural perspectives. The information gathered during the project, combined with insights from The Flow, has been summarized into a design concept. CAD visualizations produced in collaboration with an innovation company, Above, have been shown to potential partners and customers and received a positive response.