World Toilet Day is a global event celebrated on November 19 every year, aimed at raising awareness about the millions of people around the world who still lack access to proper sanitation facilities.

The day was officially designated by the United Nations in 2013, recognizing the fundamental role that toilets play in sustainable development.

Why Do We Need World Toilet Day?

Despite the fact that access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right, millions of people around the world still lack access to these basic facilities.

In fact, according to World Health Organization estimates, around 2.3 billion people still don’t have access to basic sanitation facilities like toilets, while 3 billion people lack access to basic handwashing facilities.

The lack of proper sanitation facilities is a major public health issue. Poor sanitation contributes to the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A, which can cause serious illness and even death.

In many cases, lack of sanitation facilities has a disproportionate impact on women and girls, who may be forced to use unsafe and unhygienic conditions, risking their health and safety.

World Toilet Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about these issues and to advocate for action to improve access to sanitation facilities around the world.

The Importance of Sanitation Facilities for Sustainable Development

Access to clean water and sanitation is fundamental to sustainable development. Without access to these basic facilities, people cannot lead healthy and productive lives.

Lack of sanitation facilities can also contribute to environmental degradation, as untreated wastewater can pollute rivers and other water sources.

In addition, access to sanitation is crucial for gender equality. Women and girls in many communities are responsible for collecting water, which can take hours a day and may involve walking long distances.

The lack of proper sanitation facilities can also restrict their ability to attend school or work, further limiting their opportunities.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Sanitation Facilities

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of access to sanitation facilities more than ever before.

Proper handwashing and hygiene practices are crucial for preventing the spread of the virus, yet millions of people lack access to basic handwashing facilities.

In addition, the pandemic has disrupted efforts to improve access to sanitation facilities.

Many countries have redirected resources away from sanitation projects in order to respond to the immediate needs of the pandemic, while travel restrictions have made it difficult for international development organizations to operate in affected areas.

World Toilet Day is an opportunity to renew our commitment to improving access to sanitation facilities, even in the face of these challenges.

How Can We Improve Access to Sanitation Facilities?

Improving access to sanitation facilities is a complex issue that requires a variety of approaches. Here are some of the key strategies that can be used:.

Investing in infrastructure

In many communities, the lack of sanitation facilities is due to a lack of infrastructure.

Governments and international development organizations can invest in building new facilities, such as toilets and handwashing stations, as well as improving existing infrastructure.

Behaviour change campaigns

In some cases, lack of access to sanitation facilities is due to cultural or behavioural factors.

Behaviour change campaigns can raise awareness about the importance of hygiene and sanitation and encourage people to use existing facilities in a safe and hygienic manner.

Public-private partnerships

Public-private partnerships can be used to leverage the resources and expertise of both sectors to improve access to sanitation facilities.

For example, companies that produce sanitation products or water treatment technologies can collaborate with governments or NGOs to expand access to these products.

Political commitment

Finally, political commitment is crucial for ensuring that progress is made in improving access to sanitation facilities.

Governments must prioritize sanitation as a key issue and allocate resources accordingly, while international organizations and donors must provide support and funding to help achieve these goals.

Conclusion

World Toilet Day is a reminder of the millions of people around the world who still lack access to basic sanitation facilities.

Improving access to sanitation is not only a matter of human rights and public health, but also crucial for sustainable development and gender equality. By investing in infrastructure, promoting behaviour change, and increasing political commitment, we can make progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring that everyone has access to clean water and sanitation facilities.