‘Adult toilet training’ campaign launched in Metro Vancouver

A worker removes wipes from a sewer in Metro Vancouver. (Credit: Metro Vancouver Regional District)

Flushing wipes down the toilet instead of tossing them in the trash causes millions of dollars in damage to Metro Vancouver’s sewers each year.

In order to combat the problem, the regional district has launched what it calls an “adult toilet training campaign” to remind people wipes belong in the garbage.

“Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean your toilet training is over. Too many people are still flushing wipes, causing all kinds of problems in the sewer system,” said a statement from Mike Hurley, chair of the Metro Vancouver board of directors.

“Most people are already doing the right thing, but we need everyone to remember – only flush pee, poo and toilet paper.”

The regional district spends an average of two million annually on clearing clogs caused by wipes. According to an announcement launching the campaign, roughly one in four people report flushing wipes at least occasionally – and men between 18 and 35 are the most likely culprits.

Part of the problem, according to Metro Vancouver, is that many wipes are labelled “flushable” despite the fact that they don’t break down like toilet paper does.

“Part of the problem is there’s still no legal definition for ‘flushable’ in Canada, so anyone can claim their products are safe to flush, regardless of how destructive they really are,” said a statement from Malcolm Brodie, chair of the regional district’s liquid waste committee.

Other so-called “unflushables” that can wreak havoc on the sewer system include tampons, dental floss, paper towel and hair, Metro Vancouver said.

The campaign will see reminders posted in washrooms and elevators across the region.