Portable restrooms play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene at outdoor events, construction sites, and remote areas. However, when not used responsibly, they can also contribute to environmental strain through excessive water usage, chemical waste, and improper placement.

Thankfully, using a portable restroom doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. With thoughtful habits and eco-conscious decisions, you can help reduce environmental impact while keeping sanitation standards high. Here are practical, easy-to-follow tips to make your portable restroom usage more sustainable.

Choose the right location

Choose a flat location to set up the portable restroom

Where you place a portable restroom makes a big difference in its environmental impact. Avoid placing units on soft ground, wetlands, or near rivers and lakes, where contamination risks and ground damage are higher.

Choose flat, stable ground to prevent sinking or tilting. This ensures safety, reduces the need for repositioning, and minimizes soil disruption. For events or work sites, positioning units near access roads can reduce the fuel used during servicing visits.

If possible, place the restroom in a shaded or semi-shaded area. This helps maintain stable temperatures inside, slows down the evaporation of cleaning chemicals, and keeps the experience more comfortable for users.

Use water responsibly

Large water tank and automatic water shut-off system help reduce water waste during use

Many portable restrooms now include a water tank of up to 100 gallons, used for handwashing, flushing, or other internal features. While this adds convenience and hygiene, it also requires careful management to avoid waste.

Consider using low-water or waterless options, such as vacuum-flush or dry-flush toilets, where appropriate. For units with sinks, foot-pump or sensor-operated faucets can limit unnecessary water flow and prevent overuse.

Signage can also help. A simple message like “One press is enough” near the sink or “Please turn off the tap after use” can significantly reduce water consumption across hundreds of uses.

Choose eco-friendly chemicals

The waste disposal system and chemicals used to decompose waste must be environmentally friendly.

The chemicals used inside the toilet’s waste tank play a key role in odor control and waste breakdown. Unfortunately, many traditional options contain harsh substances like formaldehyde, which can be harmful to the environment.

Instead, use biodegradable and non-toxic solutions that rely on natural enzymes or bacteria to neutralize odors and break down waste. These products are not only effective but also safer for groundwater and surrounding ecosystems if spills or leaks occur.

In lower-use units, you may also reduce the concentration of deodorizing chemicals without sacrificing performance. Talk to your sanitation provider about adjusting formulas for different conditions and usage patterns.

Reduce waste inside the unit

Paper and water are things that need to be used properly to minimize waste.

Waste reduction inside portable restrooms starts with the right supplies. Always stock biodegradable toilet paper and encourage the use of water-saving alternatives like hand-held bidets when available. These are increasingly common in high-end or long-term units.

Place a small waste bin inside each unit and label it clearly. Many odor issues and plumbing blockages happen because users throw trash or food into the toilet tank. Reminders like “Please use the bin for all waste” help prevent misuse.

Consider hand towel dispensers with controlled portions or install hand dryers in premium units. Reducing single-use paper can cut down waste dramatically, especially at large-scale events.

Encourage sustainable user behavior

Tell your customers about the small steps they can take to help make the environment greener.

Even the best equipment cannot do the job alone. Educating users to be mindful inside the restroom is one of the most effective ways to promote sustainability.

Use friendly, clear signage to promote good habits. Phrases like “Help us keep this restroom clean and green” or “Use only what you need” set the tone for eco-conscious use.

You can also provide QR codes that link to quick tips or videos on how to use the restroom responsibly. At events or public spaces, assign staff or volunteers to check on units periodically and offer gentle reminders if needed.

Choose a provider that shares your values

Choose the manufacturer that helps you achieve sustainable development goals with the world.

Sustainable use starts with sustainable products. Work with portable restroom providers who invest in green practices, such as

• Units built with recycled or durable materials
• Efficient routing and service schedules to reduce fuel use
• Non-toxic chemicals and water-saving designs
• On-demand servicing instead of routine visits to cut down emissions

Companies like Gigone are committed to offering full-featured portable restrooms that balance convenience and sustainability. With features like ventilation systems, sealed waste tanks, standard toilets, urinals, sinks, hand-held bidets, and up to 100 gallons of clean water storage, Gigone units are designed for high performance and low environmental impact.

A portable restroom can be just as sustainable as it is convenient. Choosing a suitable location, using water and chemicals wisely, minimizing waste, and promoting good habits can make a real difference in reducing environmental impact.

Eco-friendly sanitation is not just about the products we use. It’s also about how we use them. Whether you’re hosting an event, managing a site, or serving a community in need, every small choice adds up.

With a little care and the right approach, your portable restroom can serve more people for longer while protecting the environment around it.