This is a brief intro to this particular project - more news (and eventually pictures) as it happens.

A friend of mine who is a long-time builder and cabinet maker and also has an interest in alternative building materials and methods is building a prototype-demonstration dwelling that he calls an "eco-cabana."

My participation in the project involves designing and implementing a variety of systems for transforming dwelling inputs and outputs. The most exciting to me is that a conventional low-flush toilet in the main bathroom will feed a biological blackwater transformation system. The system will be based on the "Watson Wick," more formally called something like a subsurface treatment constructed wetland system.

Some info on the Watson Wick from Art Ludwig's Oasis Design site:

http://www.oasisdesign.net/compostingtoilets/watsonwick.htm

Here we have an abundance of volcanic cinder, which will be used in place of the pumice used elsewhere. Another major consideration is that this system will be constructed in a windward (wet) tropical maritime climate, whereas apparently most Watson Wicks have been built in relativley arid temperate climates.

If anyone here has information or experience with such a system in climates similar to East Hawai'i Island, please let me know!