The Wake, The Design and Construction of Bio-digester and its Economic Impact in Developing Nations
Totore Erhuvwu1*, Oyiboruona Paul Enameguono2
Abstract
This study presents the design, construction, and evaluation of a bio-digester toilet system as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional waste management and sanitation methods. The project supports global sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by promoting innovative sanitation technology that enhances public health, environmental sustainability, and renewable energy generation. The primary objective was to develop a system that efficiently treats human waste through anaerobic digestion while producing biogas and nutrient-rich effluent, suitable for agricultural use. The bio-digester system was constructed using locally available materials such as blocks, cement, sand, granite, coconut fibre, charcoal, and plastic pipes. These materials were carefully selected for their durability, availability, and functional contributions to the digestion and filtration processes. Toilet fixtures and natural additives like organic enzymes were also integrated to enhance the system’s efficiency and hygiene. The design incorporates both engineering and ecological principles, resulting in a closed-loop system that minimizes odour, prevents environmental pollution, and requires minimal maintenance. The system features inlet and outlet connections, an anaerobic digestion chamber, and filtration components that work together to decompose waste and produce usable by-products. The study concludes that the bio-digester toilet system offers a practical, low-cost, and eco-friendly solution to sanitation challenges, particularly in communities lacking access to conventional sewage infrastructure.
Keywords:
Design, Bio-digester, Construction, Waste Management, Sustainable Development Goals
