The first flush toilets were developed in the year 1775 and since then, no major changes have been brought about in its looks or design.

However, recently organized Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation toilet challenge was no where related to these designs and looks. It was a step taken forward to support all those unprivileged 2.6 billion people, who do not use toilets. Thus, making one prone to be infected and suffering major health ailments.

Figures revealed by World Health Organization emphasized that 1.5 million children below the age of five die each year due to the infection, they contract as a result of unavailability of toilets; they die due to diarrhea.

The first prize was won by California Institute of Technology at the competition. They invented a toilet, which used solar energy and in turn generated hydrogen and electricity. The prize amount was worth $100,000.

The other inventions came across during the competition included a toilet, which was capable of generating biological charcoal, minerals and water. In another type, it was observed that the toilet could automatically clean the waste, including urine and feces and generates clean water.

All the competitors majorly focused on the concept of sanitation; it was given the priority.