Proper Waste Disposal: Only Human Waste and Toilet Paper Should Go Down the Toilet

In Austria, a growing awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal in toilets has been emphasized by the Association of Austrian Waste Management Companies (VOEB). Gabriele Jüly, the president of the association, highlighted that only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. Flushing items such as fats, food scraps, and frying oils can lead to clogged pipes and foul-smelling sewage systems. Additionally, these practices can cause significant problems in pipelines, pumping stations, and wastewater channels.

Around 96% of households in Austria are connected to the public sewer system, which directs wastewater to one of approximately 1,830 treatment plants. At these facilities, wastewater undergoes various stages of purification. Initially, coarse solids, including toilet paper and other foreign materials, are removed using screens and filters. Subsequently, organic pollutants are broken down by bacteria and microorganisms, as noted by the VOEB.

Each year, Austria's treatment plants process about one billion cubic meters of water, resulting in nearly 200,000 tons of sewage sludge--a mixture of water, solid materials, and microorganisms. This sludge is not only a byproduct of wastewater treatment but also serves as an important source of phosphorus for agricultural use. Phosphorus can be utilized as a fertilizer in farming. When composted with organic material, the sewage sludge, which is subject to strict quality controls, can be applied to fields. Ongoing research is focused on developing efficient methods for recovering phosphorus from sewage sludge, including from ash produced through thermal recovery processes. This innovative approach positions toilets as sources of raw materials and exemplifies the principles of a circular economy, according to Jüly.

Furthermore, the cleaning process of sewers also emphasizes resource conservation. The wash water used in sewer cleaning vehicles is treated and can be reused during operations. Reducing the amount of unauthorized waste in the sewage system minimizes the chances of blockages, enhancing overall efficiency.

To clarify the guidelines for waste disposal, the VOEB has compiled a list of items that should never be flushed down the toilet:

• Hygiene Products: Sanitary items, wet wipes, diapers, makeup removal pads, cotton swabs, and condoms.
• Food Waste: Cooking oils and frying fats, solid and liquid food remnants, and any food products.
• Hazardous Materials: Residual medications, paints, and cleaning agents.
• Other Items: Cigarette butts, pet waste, cat litter, and contact lenses.

The message is clear: only human waste and toilet paper should be disposed of in toilets. Ensuring proper waste management practices not only helps maintain the integrity of the sewage infrastructure but also contributes to environmental sustainability.