World Portable Sanitation Day Raises Global Awareness - PSAI's Signature Outreach Event Grows in Its Second Year
BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA (PRWEB) August 21, 2015 -- People around the globe are learning about the benefits of portable sanitation through activities connected to the second annual World Portable Sanitation Day (WPSD). Celebrated each year on August 15, the week before and after WPSD finds companies from Indiana to India working in their local areas to raise awareness about the positive role portable sanitation plays in providing better worksites, better weekends, and a better world.
The Portable Sanitation Association International (PSAI) estimates approximately 3.4 million portable units are in service globally. In developed countries, the units primarily provide sanitary options for employees on outdoor job sites where plumbing is not available, and the units offer the crowds who attend outdoor public events somewhere to answer nature’s call. Millions of people use portable restrooms at sporting events, fairs, festivals and weddings. The units also provide a necessary service at times of disaster when water supplies are compromised. Globally, portable units provide safety and dignity in areas where toilets are not available. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 2.5 billion people globally – about a third of the world’s population – lack access to adequate sanitation.*
PSAI Executive Director Karleen Kos points out that the portable sanitation industry plays an integral role in personal hygiene and public health. “Sanitation is often taken for granted – until it isn’t available. Portable restrooms are an important resource, whether they are being used temporarily or as part of a longer-standing approach to sanitation in developing nations. Portable sanitation saves an estimated 125 million gallons of fresh water each day – nearly 46 billion gallons per year.** When the units are properly cleaned and maintained, they are an invaluable, hygienic and sustainable resource.”
PSAI company members are engaged in WPSD-related activities ranging from covering their units with World Portable Sanitation Day wraps and providing water-saving information to users, to holding meet-and-greet sessions with the public at local sporting events and farmers' markets. Social media campaigns and other tactics are also underway to share the message that portable sanitation contributes to better worksites, better weekends, and a better world. Additional information on specific activities is available from the PSAI.
About PSAI
Established in 1971, the Portable Sanitation Association International (PSAI) exists to expand and improve portable sanitation as part of a global approach to serving the public and sustaining the planet. As the largest trade association of its kind in the world, the PSAI Is recognized internationally as a credible, authoritative voice providing education and tools to promote safety and health. The PSAI develops and promotes industry standards; serves as a repository of information and resources for operators, suppliers, government entities and the general public; and provides recognition for excellence in the field. The Association plays an integral role in delivering better worksites, better weekends, and a better world. The PSAI has its worldwide headquarters in Bloomington, Minnesota, USA. Visit http://www.PSAI.org for additional Association news and information.
*See http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/hygiene/en/ (2014 report)
** See http://psai.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Global-Water-Savings-Calculations.pdf (July 2014)
Karleen Kos, Portable Sanitation Association International, http://www.psai.org, +1 (952) 854-8300, [email protected]
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