World Toilet Day takes place annually on 19th November. As a UN initiative, it serves as a reminder that access to sanitation is a basic human right we all deserve.
According to the WHO, as of 2025 3.4 billion people still live without safely managed sanitation services. That is nearly half the world’s population. Unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene also accounts for the deaths of around 1,000 children under five every day. You can find more statistics about the day, or how to get involved in the campaign here.
Beyond these sobering statistics, there a fascinating story unfolding in the world of toilet technology. From smart sensors to waterless systems, innovation is reshaping one of humanity’s most essential inventions, and basic human rights.
With water scarcity becoming a real issue, we are all looking for ways to conserve water. Traditional toilets can use up to six litres per flush, but new designs are slashing that figure dramatically. Dual-flush systems, vacuum-assisted toilets, and pressure-based flushing mechanisms are becoming standard in eco-conscious homes. Some models even recycle greywater from sinks for flushing, creating a closed-loop system that conserves resources.
In regions where water scarcity is critical, composting toilets offer a sustainable alternative. These systems break down waste into usable compost, reducing environmental impact and providing a solution for off-grid living. Similarly, waterless toilets - powered by evaporation or incineration - are gaining traction in disaster zones and remote communities.
The first smart toilet, introduced by Japanese company TOTO in 1980, seemed too good to be true and has even been used as tag lines in TV shows such as the Simpsons. But what seemed like a farfetched household item from the future, smart toilets are now making their way into homes worldwide. The toilet of the future is here. They boast features like:
Companies like TOTO as well as Kohler are leading the charge, turning trips to the toilets from just a necessity into wellness experiences.
It’s not just loos in the home that are getting smarter. The introduction of IoT-enabled toilets in public spaces, which use sensors and internet connectivity to monitor usage, are helping facilities managers. They can:
Cities like Singapore and Seoul are piloting these systems to enhance urban sanitation efficiency.
Toilet tech isn’t just about convenience. It’s about climate resilience. Sanitation accounts for significant water and energy use, and innovations that reduce consumption can help mitigate environmental stress. Composting toilets, for example, cut methane emissions from sewage systems, while smart flushing reduces water demand in drought-prone areas. But, what’s next? Toilets in Space! NASA and private space companies are investing in advanced waste management systems for long-duration missions. These toilets recycle every drop of water from human waste, a technology that could one day influence Earth-based sanitation systems.
Far from being mundane, toilets are at the heart of a global transformation. They’re not just fixtures of daily life but they’re evolving into smart, sustainable systems that safeguard health and conserve resources. As climate challenges intensify and toilet tech becomes mainstream, the humble flush is turning into a powerful tool for resilience and wellbeing. Yet, as we embrace these innovations, we must remember that nearly half the world’s population still lacks access to basic sanitation. The future of sanitation isn’t just about convenience; it’s about closing this gap and creating a cleaner, smarter, and more equitable world. One flush at a time.
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