«New Sanitation Systems & Technologies»

Pit Humus

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Pit Humus is the term used to describe the nutrient-rich, hygienically improved, humic material that is generated in double pit technologies (S.4-S.6) through dewatering and degradation. This earth-like product is also referred to as EcoHumus, a term conceived by Peter Morgan in Zimbabwe.

The various natural decomposition processes taking place in alternating pits can be both aerobic and anaerobic in nature, depending on the technology and operating conditions. The main difference between Pit Humus and Compost is that the degradation processes are passive and are not subjected to a controlled oxygen supply, C:N ratio, humidity and temperature. Therefore, the rate of pathogen reduction is generally slower and the quality of the product, including its nutrient and organic matter content, can vary considerably.

Pit Humus can look very similar to Compost and have good soil conditioning properties, although pathogens may still be present.