Background of the Study
Food demand is gradually increasing, with 50% of agricultural production
estimated in 2050 (FAO, 2019). In countries from the third world such as the
Philippines, agriculture is among the approaches to enhancing the development and
growth of the economy together with supporting the increasing food needs of the
growing population (World Bank, 2023), farmers use fertilizers to ensure good harvests
(Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2023). Fertilizers are
substances that are applied to the soil to supply or regain the lost minerals and nutrients
in plants (Brady & Weil, 2017), this is classified into organic and chemical fertilizers
(Karagöz, İ. (2021). Most of the local farmers use chemical fertilizer for its easy access
in stores and a perception of a higher yield (Department of Agriculture Philippines,
2023), while it demonstrates an increase in crop yields and increased plant growth, their
use can contribute to soil pollution through the accumulation of toxic materials (Chandini
et al., 2019). Problems such as decreasing nutrients in soil and plants are the adverse
effects of chemical fertilizers (Pahalvi, 2021). According to the study of Patel et al.
(2020), with the increasing demand for fertilizer, researchers shifted focus towards
recovering and reusing nutrients from natural resources such as human urine rather
than relying only on chemical synthesis. Thus, adapting to new practices such as
shifting from chemical-based to organic-based fertilizers will create a healthier and
natural environment (The Organic Farming Research Foundation, 2021). Researchers
look for organic fertilizers that are ample and non-costly (Singh & Kumar, 2016).
According to De Laurentiis et al. (2020) study, high food demand pressures natural
resources, and lifestyle changes have led to extremely high agriculture, in which
contains a particular element such as nitrogen (N) that costs farmers a lot, comparing
their price to gas prices, leading to major problems, with the increasing demand for
fertilizer, researchers shifted focus towards recovering and reusing nutrients from
natural resources such as human urine rather than relying only on chemical synthesis
(Aryal et al., 2021; Patel et al. 2020). Thus, the utilization of Human Urine as fertilizer
can be a solution (Pradhan & Eawag, 2018).
Human Urine is a liquid waste excreted by humans that contains essential
nutrients such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (Saliu et. al, 2024).
These nutrients are needed to help plants grow. When nutrients are in decline, nutrient
deficiency occurs (Shingiro et. al, 2020). According to the study of Filling, J. (2018),
human urine delivers good agricultural results. Despite the affirmation that Human Urine
is beneficial as an organic fertilizer for plants, some opposed this idea. As said by
Masauli in 2023, while human urine may elicit positive feedback, it may bring in soil with
too dangerous nutrient values if not well quantified. Therefore, when utilizing human
urine, it has to be done in the right proportions. A previous study by Arago Jr, L. B., &
Sarabia also prescribed using ratios of human urine as fertilizer for the other crops. The
chosen crop used for this study is the Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato), since Nitrogen,
Phosphorus, and Potassium are needed in the highest quantity for normal growth and
reproduction (Sainju, U. M. et al. 2003) As such, this research seeks to investigate the
effectiveness of Human Urine–an organic fertilizer for Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato),
with identification of optimum ratio.
Tomato plants scientifically referred to as Solanum Lycopersicum species prefer
fertile soils. While nitrogen is necessary for vegetative growth, potassium, and
phosphorus are needed for the plant's reproductive purpose and general well-
being (PhilRice, 2021). Due to the composition of human urine that contains these
nutrients, it can significantly act as an organic source of fertilizer which is better than
synthetic ones (Velasco, 2017). While some studies have shown that urine can help
plant growth, the best ratio of urine to water for maximizing crop yield is still unclear
(Bautista, 2021). Additionally, there has been limited research on how urine-based
fertilizers specifically affect tomatoes in terms of growth, fruit production, and fruit weight
(Panganiban, 2022). Understanding the optimal urine-to-water ratio could greatly impact
farming results and support sustainable agriculture. Since tomatoes are sensitive to
nutrient levels, this study aims to provide insights into using human urine as a reliable
organic fertilizer (Reyes, 2021).
Nevertheless, utilizing Human Urine as an organic fertilizer may cause problems,
some of which include odor; perception of the people; and possible pathogenic or
contaminated material therein (Manalo, 2019; Garcia, 2020). Regarding the above
potential threats, the study will strictly adhere to sanitation measures and precautions
regarding urine dilution will also be taken appropriately. Moreover, this study intends to
meet the existing gap of knowledge on how human urine can be appropriately applied
as an organic fertilizer for tomatoes. It seeks to find the most effective urine-to-water
ratio for improving plant height, fruit number, and fruit weight. The results could
significantly contribute to sustainable agriculture by offering a natural and affordable
alternative to chemical fertilizers and discussing in detail its implications for agricultural
practices in the future.
