In today’s environmentally conscious world, businesses and consumers are seeking sustainable solutions to reduce their ecological footprint. One such choice is the transition from paper towels to electric hand dryers in restrooms. Excel Dryer and TrueNorth Collective found that hand dryers have significantly fewer environmental impacts than paper towels from their most recent life cycle assessment (LCA) study (Mai 2023). The contributions to degrading water systems measured include acidification and eutrophication potential.

Understanding Eutrophication and Acidification

Eutrophication is the process where water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and other plants. This can deplete oxygen in the water, harming aquatic life and degrading water quality. Acidification refers to the increase in the acidity of soil, rain, and water bodies, which can harm ecosystems, buildings, and biodiversity.

Hand Dryers vs. Paper Towels: The LCA Findings

The LCA study demonstrated that electric hand dryers are far superior to paper towels in preserving clean water. Excel Dryers have up to 93% lower eutrophication potential (kg N-equivalent) and up to 92% lower acidification potential (kg SO2-equivalent) than 100% recycled paper towels. Here’s why:

1. Lower Chemical Use: Hand dryers eliminate the need for paper pulp, a process that releases chemicals, such as bleaching agents, contributing to eutrophication and acidification.
2. Decreased Wastewater Pollution: Paper towel production generates wastewater containing pollutants that can lead to eutrophication and acidification. Hand dryers do not produce such wastewater and remove the need for disposable products.
3. Minimized Transportation Emissions: Hand dryers require fewer transportation resources compared to the bulk shipping of paper towels, reducing emissions that contribute to acidification.
4. Less Landfill Waste: Paper towels contribute to landfill waste, where decomposition can release acids into groundwater. Hand dryers reduce the waste needing disposal.

Switching to high efficiency electric hand dryers is a practical and effective step towards reducing water pollution and protecting our natural ecosystems. The clear advantages in minimizing eutrophication and acidification make bathroom hand dryers a superior long-term choice for eco-conscious businesses and individuals. By choosing hand dryers over paper towels, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

The Role eHA Plays

The electric Handdryer Association (eHA) advocates for this greener alternative, encouraging everyone to make the switch and support a cleaner planet. This data was provided by our member Excel Dryer. Hand Dryers = Ecofriendly System