Farmers in Vermont are participating in the Urine Nutrient Reclamation Program, donating their urine to be used as fertilizer by local farms. The Rich Earth Institute collects a total of 12,000 gallons of urine each year to be pasteurized and sprayed on farmland, resulting in increased crop yields. The use of urine as a fertilizer reduces greenhouse gas emissions and water usage compared to synthetic fertilizers. However, challenges such as regulations and plumbing limitations hinder the expansion of peecycling programs. Despite the “ick factor,” research shows that the pharmaceutical content in vegetables fertilized with urine is extremely small. The initiative highlights the importance of changing attitudes towards waste and taking small steps to combat climate change and water pollution.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250227-the-vermont-farmers-using-urine-to-grow-their-crops