Here’s a problem I never thought would exist…

At a site near Bordeaux, France – known for fine wines the world over – a small startup is running tests on a tent packed with tomato plants. The goal is to find a way to keep this tiny crop (and eventually crops the world over) well-fed and fertilized using a source that up to now has simply been dumped down the drain.

Urine.

According to Wired, Toopi Organics has launched an all-quest to find a way to turn pee into profit.

There are many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that for centuries savvy humans have recognized that good old number 1 is packed with useful chemicals (including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) – all of which can help quite contrary Mary’s garden grow.

The ancient Romans made extensive use of urine when doing laundry, lacking modern bleaching and cleaning agents such as ammonia. And it’s recorded that they, too, recognized its potential as fertilizer. In fact, Roman author Columella said it made pomegranates juicier and tastier.

And the world could benefit from a reduction in the use of synthetic fertilizers, currently used to produce food for at least half of the world’s population.

So Toopi Organics has both tradition and science on their side. But the problem they face is one that might not have occurred to you.

They can’t get enough of the stuff!

The reason: we’ve gotten very good at flushing it out of our homes and into our sewer systems – so much so that there’s not a great way currently to collect it for practical use. One idea they’re exploring involves a partnership with the Stade de France, home of the national football and rugby teams. With a capacity of over 80,000 fans, most of whom need to take at least one beer break during the match. There’s tons of potential there alone.

Opportunities abound for sure these days, so why not dial 513-563-PLAN (7526) or book online so we can discuss how to take advantage of them for your portfolio on our 15-minute call?

Regards,
Nikki Earley, CFP®