Set to make its UK debut at LAMMA, the CowToilet offers a practical way for dairy farmers to reduce ammonia emissions by up to a third.
Developed by Dutch company Hanskamp, it collects urine directly from under the cow’s tail before it mixes with solid manure. Integrating into a free-access out-of-parlour feeding station, ass a cow enters to eat, the CowToilet gently rubs against the suspensory ligament of the udder, triggering a natural nerve reflex that encourages urination. The urine is then collected in a sealed receptacle, removed by suction, and stored in an airtight tank.
Research shows that keeping urine and manure separate can reduce ammonia emissions by up to 38%, total nitrogen by 33%, and nitrous oxide by 18% compared with conventional housing systems.
“Ammonia is one of the biggest environmental challenges facing the livestock sector,” explains Henk Hanskamp. “We wanted to create a system that works with nature, not against it – improving animal welfare and helping farmers meet environmental targets without adding to their workload. The CowToilet achieves this in a simple, natural, and effective way.”
In addition to reducing emissions, the CowToilet transforms waste into a resource. Nitrogen-rich urine can be reused as a natural fertiliser or even sold, while the remaining solid manure retains phosphate and organic matter for soil health. Separating cow faeces and urine also keeps housing cleaner and improves air quality.
Developed in close collaboration with Dutch livestock farmers, engineers, and researchers, the CowToilet is already operating on over 35 dairy farms in the Netherlands. Each unit is designed to serve 25 cows, and costs around £28,000 per unit (excludes installation).
For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save 47%.
