Lajitteleueris

Lajitteleueris is a term originating from Finnish and it translates to "sorting urine". It refers to the practice of separating urine for different purposes, most commonly for agricultural use as a fertilizer. This practice is rooted in traditional methods of waste management and nutrient recycling.

The primary motivation behind urine sorting is to harness its rich nutrient content, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These elements are essential for plant growth, making treated urine a valuable organic fertilizer. By separating urine, its nutrient potential can be more effectively utilized and directed to agricultural fields, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This also helps to close nutrient loops, promoting a more sustainable approach to agriculture and waste management.

Collection and treatment methods for sorted urine vary. In some systems, urine is collected separately from fecal matter and flushed water. It can then be stored for a period to allow for pathogen reduction, a process known as sanitization. This storage can also lead to the breakdown of urea into ammonia, which can then be lost to the atmosphere if not managed carefully, or it can be further processed. Various technologies are being explored and implemented to optimize the collection, treatment, and application of sorted urine to ensure its safe and effective use as a fertilizer. The concept is gaining traction in discussions about resource recovery from wastewater and circular economy principles.