An Investigation into Sustainable Options for The New Student Union Building Washrooms: Recycled Paper Towels or Electric Hand Dryers

Abstract

Sustainable designs are to be a theme in the new Student Union Building. Every proposed design or idea must be economically, environmentally, and socially assessed (the triple-bottom line assessment). This report is about the sustainability of hand drying in the new building’s washrooms. Two options of hand drying were considered: recycled paper towels and electric hand dryers. Cloth towels were initially included. However initial research into the option revealed that UBC abandoned cloth towels years ago and therefore this option was omitted from this report. The research involved talking to UBC Waste Management staff, finding specifications from vendors of electric hand dryers and recycled paper towels, and finding data how hygienic each option is. Studies comparing the environmental impacts of recycled paper towels and electric hand dryers were analyzed as well. Electric hand dryers were found to be the better option in the economic and environmental assessments. Recycled paper towels were found to be a better option in the social assessment. Since the electric hand dryer is a better option for two out of three triple-bottom line criteria, it is the recommended method for drying hands in the new Student Union Building.