World Toilet Day

World Toilet Day History

World Toilet Day aims to raise awareness of the sanitation crisis affecting billions of people worldwide. This annual event focuses on the importance of clean and safe toilets for everyone, highlighting sanitation, hygiene, and human health issues. The campaign strives to break the taboo surrounding toilets and draw attention to the need for better sanitation facilities, which, in turn, can help prevent diseases and protect the environment.

Established by the World Toilet Organization in 2001, World Toilet Day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2013. Though Canadians are fortunate to have access to clean and functioning toilets, they can still play a crucial role in the global effort to improve sanitation conditions. By lending their voice and resources to the movement, Canadians can assist the 4.2 billion people worldwide who lack access to safe sanitation services. Moreover, Canadians can contribute by reducing water waste and promoting sustainable sanitation solutions at home, helping to conserve precious freshwater resources and protect the environment.

World Toilet Day in Canada is observed through awareness campaigns, educational events, and various activities promoting the cause. Multiple organizations, including academic institutions, non-profits, and government agencies, participate in these initiatives to help bring the discussion of sanitation issues to a broader audience. World Toilet Day takes place every year on November 19th, providing a unique opportunity for Canadians to join the global movement and take action to transform lives and protect the environment through improved sanitation practices.

World Toilet Day facts

• The theme for World Toilet Day in 2024 was Sanitation for Peace. In 2023 the theme was Accelerating Change.
• 1 in 8 people in the world practice open defecation, meaning that the person must relieve him/herself without cover or shelter from other people.
• Diarrhea is the second leading cause of deaths in children under age 5 in developing countries. Diarrhea is primarily due to poor hygiene and sanitation
• Canada has one of the highest per capita toilet paper usages in the world, with an average Canadian using around 100 rolls per year.
• The Canadian government has set efficiency standards for toilets, ensuring that they use no more than 6 liters (1.6 gallons) of water per flush. This has led to the development of more water-efficient models, such as the dual-flush toilet and ultra-low flow toilets.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Toilet Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Toilet Day

• Spread awareness by using the hashtag #WorldToiletDay, #WeCantWait and #ToiletAccessIsARight.
• Read a book about toilets and the importance of sanitation. Some suggestions are: Sanitation & Water Supply in Low-Income Countries, Sitting Pretty An Uninhibited History of the Toilet and The Big Necessity.
• Use the occasion to promote water conservation initiatives and awareness. Encourage individuals and communities to reduce water usage, fix water leakages, and adopt sustainable practices that conserve water resources.
• Write to local representatives, policymakers, or government officials to advocate for improved sanitation infrastructure and access, both within Canada and globally. Join or support initiatives that promote sanitation as a basic human right.