What is a waterless toilet also known as?

A waterless toilet is commonly known as a composting toilet. This type of toilet operates without the use of water to flush waste, instead utilizing a process that breaks down human waste through aerobic decomposition. Composting toilets often transform waste into compost that can eventually be safely used as fertilizer, making them a sustainable choice for areas where water conservation is crucial or infrastructure for conventional plumbing is not available.

The term "privy" typically refers to an outdoor toilet or latrine, which may or may not utilize water. While the options include terms related to various toilet systems, the term "privy" does not specifically denote the composting process or waterless operation. Other options like "porta-potty" refer to portable toilet facilities that usually do utilize water in some fashion for sanitation, and "ensuite toilet" indicates a bathroom integrated into a bedroom or private area, which usually connects to a plumbing system. Thus, "composting toilet" is the most accurate description of a waterless toilet, focusing on its ecological processes and sustainability features.