Composting toilets were installed to recycle the human waste to provide a nutrient supply for the gardens. After a few experimentations, the final design is completely functional, has no smell, has no moving parts and therefore requires little maintenance. The collecting bins are orientated towards the sun for maximum exposure which increases the break-down process. A Mandala garden was installed, which was a raised bed, essential to facilitate drainage, and to help build up soil nutrients. Due to the humidity in the region the decomposition rate is very high.
Weeds are a problem too, so mulching and cover crops are essential.
Sawdust is available from the local timber mill so is used for pathways and in the composting process. The growth is very quick so a turn-over of crops ensures a constant ground cover. A banana circle was planted with manioc in the middle. Compost was constantly added to the middle. As the local people are not highly motivated, a very low-energy form of composting in layering was used, where leaf litter was laid straight on top of the garden beds.