Green Gown Awards 2014 - Research and Development - Cranfield University - Highly Commended

The Nano Membrane Toilet: a toilet for everyone without water or energy

There are 2.5 billion people without access to toilets, resulting in the death of 1.5 million children annually from unclean water. They typically live in areas without electricity, running water or sewerage systems. In response to this Cranfield University is developing the Nano Membrane Toilet, designed for single-household use.

The toilet uses a water-less rotating flush mechanism, preventing smells and view of the waste. There are clear health benefits associated with stopping waste from entering watercourses thus helping to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

Additionally the nanomembrane technology within the toilet provides utility water for householder use and dewatered solid waste is collected weekly by a community team which can be used as a fuel source.

Top 3 learnings

1 Cross-departmental working was hugely beneficial in developing the innovative design
2 The toilet development is being undertaken by a multi-disciplinary team of researchers and students from across Cranfield University
3 A new MSc module is also being developed to share knowledge from this project.

What the judges say ...

This is a strong project that has the potential to provide sanitation to people who do not currently havea toilet - 2 billion people around the world.

What it means to win ...

“The Nano Membrane Toilet project exemplifies the innovative, transformational and multidisciplinary research for which Cranfield is renowned. Winning this Award enhances awareness of Cranfield’s international research capabilities in water and sanitation, and provides much-deserved recognition for the hard work and dedication of all the project team.”

Professor Sir Peter Gregson, Vice-Chancellor

Videos

• The Nano Membrane Toilet: a toilet for everyone without water or energy (click to hide)