Reinventing the toilet

The Gates Foundation recently hosted a "Reinvent the Toilet Challenge" where teams around the world entered designs to create a more sustainable toilet and sanitation system. Winners received grant money to further develop their projects.

This is a new public health initiative the Gates Foundation has launched in response to the fact that poor sanitation can result in 1.5 million child deaths. A Caltech team won top prize this year for its solar-powered toilet that generates hydrogen and electricity.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.