The United Nations has decided to discontinue the provision of paper towels in restrooms at its headquarters in New York City and is encouraging employees to use the electric hand dryers installed in those facilities.
The decision was announced in an email circulated across the UN system on December 10. It is the latest in a series of cost-cutting measures introduced by the organization this year amid an ongoing financial crisis.
In the email, the UN Department of Operational Support (DOS) stated that replacing paper towels with “high-speed” commercial hand dryers is expected to save the organization more than USD 100,000 annually. This comes as the UN faces outstanding dues of approximately USD 1.87 billion from member states.
However, it has been noted that paper towels will continue to be available in restrooms within United Nations premises that are open to the public.
