Scientists are developing radical plans for the toilet of the future. Eight universities, including Delft University of Technology, are working on designs for a toilet which functions without water or drainpipes.

The universities are taking part in Reinventing the Toilet, a competition to produce a 'toilet of tomorrow' which is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the tune of 42 million dollars. The foundation will choose the best design next year and hopes to introduce it in developing countries in three years time.

The Delft University concept is for a toilet using microwaves which will use solid waste to generate electricity.

(imm)