Ecologically sound hand washing

[Cherries]

I was wondering this in the cloakroom at work today. Which would have the least damaging effect on the environment - either washing my hands and using the electric dryer, or using the (presumably recycled) paper towels provided, which must have needed energy to be produced. Any thoughts?

[Hawkwalk]

The towels I would guess, the dryers would also take energy to make. but using your trowsers is the better option if you want to go green.

[wildwood]

I guess the dryer would be more energy efficient. I hope it is only the paper towels that are recycled, not the loo paper.

[bigbanana]

When I wipe my hands on my trousers in the washroom in work, they're dirtier than before I washed them!
Green is only one of the myriad colours on my hands afterwards.

[Le5bo']

Paper grows on trees. Totally replaceable/recyclable.

Electricity is produced by burning Fossil fuels Coal/Oil/Gas, or Nuclear energy (Uranium) all finite reources.

Now the catch 22 bit.

To make the paper you need power, (presumably electricity), to turn the wood into pulp, mix with water and additives to aid coagulation. Then roll it out, cut it, slice it and box it. Put into truck and deliver to washroom. (simplified I know). Thereby using up valuable resources.
The above probably takes several people who all have to wash their hands, therefore multiplying your dilemma.

So use the air dryer, coz it's already there and inconveniences (pun intended) less people.

[Matheous]

Good question and good answer !!!