World Toilet Day

World Toilet Day History

World Toilet Day is a United Nations (UN) initiative to raise awareness about the significance of proper sanitation and the importance of access to clean and safe facilities for the billions of people around the globe who still lack this basic necessity. It highlights sanitation's critical role in preventing disease spread and promoting overall human health, dignity, and gender equality. The observance also emphasises the need for innovation and investment in infrastructure and sustainable systems to address the global sanitation crisis.

The UN designated 19 November as World Toilet Day in 2013, building upon the efforts of the World Toilet Organization founded in 2001. In the United Kingdom, sanitation and clean water are often taken for granted, but the country plays a significant role in working towards improved global sanitation. For example, the UK-based charity WaterAid actively supports this mission and has assisted millions of people in accessing clean water and decent toilets globally. Additionally, British educational institutions and businesses contribute to the research and development of sustainable sanitation solutions and technologies.

To commemorate World Toilet Day in the United Kingdom, various activities are organised to raise awareness and funds for global sanitation projects. These events range from educational seminars and workshops at universities to fundraising campaigns by non-governmental organisations and social media campaigns encouraging public discussions on the importance of proper sanitation. World Toilet Day is observed in the UK on the same date designated by the UN, 19 November each year.

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
• Before sewer systems, Londoners relied on cesspits, which were large holes dug to collect human waste. These pits were often poorly maintained, leading to a famous incident in 1814 known as the "Great Stink," when the smell from the River Thames near to the Houses of Parliament was so overwhelming that the business was almost halted.
• The first patent for a flushing toilet in the UK was awarded to Alexander Cummings, a Scottish watchmaker, in 1775.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Toilet Day

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Support organizations or campaigns working towards improving sanitation in developing countries by organizing a fundraiser. This can involve activities like sponsored walks, runs, or fun events to raise funds.
• Look out for local events, exhibitions, or workshops related to sanitation and hygiene. These can provide useful information and raise awareness about the importance of toilets and good sanitation practices.