Prithvi Simha

Recycling resources from wastewater fractions like human urine contributes to a sustainable future and a circular economy in sanitation. This approach reduces human impacts on planetary boundaries, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, while also complementing centralised wastewater treatment systems. 

Currently, my work focuses on developing technologies to treat human urine for the production of concentrated fertilisers, such as granurin (nitrogen-rich fertiliser pellets containing over 15% nitrogen), high-value chemicals, and clean water. I am also developing methods to remove heavy metals, pathogens, and micropollutants, including pharmaceutical residues, from urine and urine-based products.

I am a contributing author to the United Nations Environment Program and Global Wastewater Initiative flagship report, ‘Wastewater – Turning Problem to Solution’, and serve on the management committee for the Specialist Group on Resource-Oriented Sanitation of the International Water Association.

My research combines natural sciences with chemical and environmental engineering. I enjoy prototyping, field-testing, and implementing new technologies in real-world settings. I also apply systems analysis tools to strategize the adoption of new sanitation technologies and behaviours in society. 

I like mentoring students, so if you're interested in contributing to circularity in the water and sanitation space, feel free to reach out!

Ph.D. Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Erasmus Mundus M.Sc. Environmental Sciences, Policy, & Management (MESPOM): University of Manchester, Lund University, Central European University, University of Aegean.

B. Tech. Chemical Process Engineering at VIT University, India.