Human Urine Proves Viable as Eco-Friendly Fertilizer for Crops

New research shows stored urine can safely enhance soil health and sustainability, though long-term effects need further study.

A study by researchers from the University of Birmingham and L'Institut Agro Montpellier found that stored human urine has minimal negative effects on soil bacterial communities.
Stored urine, which is 95% water and 5% nutrients, can provide essential micronutrients to plants, making it a potential alternative to synthetic fertilizers.
Despite its high salt concentration, urine fertilization caused only minor changes in soil pH and salinity, and most soil bacteria remained resilient.
There is a potential for increased nitrogen oxide emissions with urine use, requiring further investigation into long-term environmental impacts.
Recycling human urine for agriculture could enhance sustainability, reduce wastewater pollution, and decrease reliance on synthetic fertilizers.