Soon, your poop would be available as fuel

Your poop could soon be used as a reusable fuel, thanks to a new technique developed by researchers. The technique was created by researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, and results in a safe, reusable fuel, as well as a nutrient rich fertilizer.

It uses a process called hydrothermal carbonization, in which human waste is heated in a pressure cooker. This converts the waste into hydrochar — a safe, reusable biomass fuel that resembles coal.

The discovery addresses two key challenges in the developing world — sanitation, and growing energy needs.

Professor Amit Gross, who led the study, said: “Human excreta are considered hazardous due to their potential to transmit disease.

“While it is rich in organic matter nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, human waste also contains micro pollutants from pharmaceuticals, which can lead to environmental problems if not disposed or reused properly.” The technique could also provide a sustainable energy source for millions of people who currently rely on less environment- friendly resources.