Lactic acid fermentation of human excreta for agricultural application

Nadejda Andreev*, Mariska Ronteltap, Boris Boincean, Piet N.L. Lens

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

17 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Studies show that source separated human excreta have a fertilizing potential with benefits to plant growth and crop yield similar or exceeding that of mineral fertilizers. The main challenges in fertilizing with excreta are pathogens, and an increased risk of eutrophication of water bodies in case of runoff. This review shows that lactic acid fermentation of excreta reduces the amount of pathogens, minimizes the nutrient loss and inhibits the production of malodorous compounds, thus increasing its agricultural value. Pathogens (e.g., Enterobacteriacea, Staphylococcus and Clostridium) can be reduced by 7 log CFUg−1 during 7–10 days of fermentation. However, more resistant pathogens (e.g. Ascaris) are not always efficiently removed. Direct application of lacto-fermented faeces to agriculture may be constrained by incomplete decomposition, high concentrations of organic acids or insufficient hygienization. Post-treatment by adding biochar, vermi-composting, or thermophilic composting stabilizes and sanitizes the material. Pot and field experiments on soil conditioners obtained via lactic acid fermentation and post treatment steps (composting or biochar addition) demonstrated increased crop yield and growth, as well as improved soil quality, in comparison to unfertilized controls.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)890-900
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Environmental Management
Volume206
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Jan 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Biochar
  • Combined lactic acid fermentation and composting
  • Lactic acid fermentation
  • Resource recycling

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