The United Nations has decided to discontinue the provision of toilet paper in staff restrooms at its New York City headquarters as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures amid a broader financial crisis.
The decision was communicated to UN staff in an internal email issued on December 10 by the UN Department of Operational Support (DOS). Employees have been encouraged to use the electric hand dryers installed in the restrooms instead.
According to the DOS, the move is expected to save the organization more than USD 100,000 annually by transitioning to “high-speed” commercial hand dryers. The savings form part of a series of both minor and major cost-reduction initiatives implemented by the UN this year.
Despite the change for staff facilities, toilet paper will continue to be provided in restrooms located in UN office areas that are accessible to the public.
The cost-saving effort comes as the United Nations faces significant financial challenges, including outstanding contributions amounting to approximately USD 1.87 billion owed by member states.
