World’s first mushroom-powered toilet turns waste into fertilizer

The University of British Columbia (UBC) has developed the world’s first mushroom-powered, waterless toilet called the MycoToilet, which uses mycelium—the root network of mushrooms—to safely process human waste without the need for plumbing, water, electricity, or chemicals. Launched at the UBC Botanical Garden, this innovative sanitation system transforms waste into nutrient-rich compost and liquid fertilizer, potentially producing about 600 liters of soil and 2,000 liters of liquid fertilizer annually. The pilot phase, starting September 26, 2025, will last six weeks, during which researchers will monitor the mycelium’s effectiveness in waste decomposition and odor control. Designed as a prefabricated, modular structure, the MycoToilet aims to overcome negative perceptions of composting toilets by offering a clean, comfortable, and user-friendly experience. Its design includes rot-resistant cedar panels with antimicrobial charring, a green roof, continuous ventilation via a low-power fan, and accessibility features such as a