Use fewer paper towels, urges green group

WE have been told over and over again that we should not waste paper in order to protect the environment. But it appears that not many of us follow that advice. In a recent survey, a green group found out that each Hongkonger uses an average of 7.7 sheets of paper towels a day. World Green Organisation (世界綠色組織) recommends using handkerchiefs or hand dryers instead.

In a survey about paper towel use, the group questioned more than 80 shopping centres, commercial or industrial buildings, club houses and offices. It found that over 90 percent provide paper towels in their restrooms, and 60 percent have hand dryers.

Over 60 percent of the premises surveyed were reluctant to reduce the amount of paper towels they provide because they think that people who use the toilets would complain. The premises that did not install hand dryers said the machines are too expensive. Under one percent of those taking part in the survey plan to phase out paper towels entirely.

(This article is published on Goodies on 14 December 2016)