Microbial Fertilizers from Waste: From Milorganite to Bio-Toilets

Turning Waste into Fertilizer

A Canadian company manufacturing in China using compost and thermophilic bacteria (35–45°C) likely produces microbial fertilizer. Many such systems exist globally.

Notable Examples

• Milorganite (Milwaukee, USA): Heat-dried microbes from sewage sludge since 1913. Microbes activate at soil temps 55–85°F (13–29°C), releasing slow-release nitrogen. 85% water-insoluble N.
• Japanese Bio-Toilets: Use porous conifer wood chips ("Bio-Chips") to culture aerobic bacteria that decompose sewage hygienically and odorlessly. Distributed in Canada by Recyclet Corp.
• Chinese Biotech Parks: 20+ parks (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) with 2,500+ companies developing microbial wastewater and sewage treatment.

Key Distinctions

Aerobic systems (sewage, food waste) use oxygen-loving bacteria to produce fertilizer and clean water. Anaerobic systems (toxic waste) use sulfate/carbonate-reducing bacteria, generating methane and ethanol. Temperature optima differ: aerobic ~13–29°C; thermophilic anaerobic ~35–45°C.

Identifying the Specific Company

Without the waste type or company name, precise identification is impossible. The principles, however, are universal: microbes + organic waste + controlled conditions = fertilizer + cleaner environment.