Source: US Department of Energy
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Moab UMTRA Project in eastern Utah demonstrates a successful water efficiency and conservation initiative by switching to waterless urinals across its Moab and Crescent Junction sites.
Key points:
Phased implementation:
The project gradually transitioned from low-flow toilets (2002) to waterless urinals, starting with a pilot in 2015 and completing full adoption (17 units) by 2021.How the technology works:
Waterless urinals use a cartridge and biodegradable sealant to direct waste, block odors, and prevent bacterial reactions—eliminating the need for flushing water.Major impact:
Over 80,000 gallons of water saved annually
Significant wastewater reduction (~76,500 gallons)
Low operating cost (under $900/year total)
Quick return on investment (within 12–18 months)
Efficiency gains:
Each urinal saves about $875 per year, with minimal maintenance required.Broader significance:
The project serves as a scalable, cost-effective model for water conservation, especially in water-scarce regions like the American West.
Bottom line:
A simple, low-cost technology shift led to substantial environmental and financial benefits, making it a strong example of practical sustainability in action. That’s pretty much what waterless urinals are all about.
