Drying Hands: A Sustainable Analysis of Paper Towels vs. Electric Hand Dryers

Cheryl from Wisconsin asked about the environmental impact of paper hand towels versus electric hand dryers on The Sound of Science on WNIJ. Jasmine and Chrissy from NIU STEAM discussed this topic and provided an in-depth analysis.

When it comes to sustainability, factors such as manufacturing, transportation, usage, and disposal must be considered. Hand dryers are made with metal and plastic materials, which are used for transportation and energy consumption. Although they have a longer lifespan of 7 to 10 years, their biggest environmental impact is the electricity required to run them. However, newer models are more efficient and use less power, reducing their carbon emissions.

On the other hand, paper towels generate significant waste both in landfills and within facilities. The production of paper towels requires more energy and generates more waste and pollution compared to hand dryers. Additionally, when paper towels are disposed of, they are often thrown away in plastic bags, adding to the overall environmental impact.

In conclusion, while both options have environmental impacts, hand dryers may be a better choice for sustainability due to their longer lifespan, lower energy usage, and less waste generated. Thank you for tuning into The Sound of Science on WNIJ where you learn something new every day!