Toilet paper is one of those little things we often do not think about. Until we notice, we have run out, of course. In fact, people on toilets without eco-friendly tissue have gone so far as to tweet their distress AND actually receive a fresh roll. There are two types of toilet paper: single-ply and multi-ply. Single-ply is thinner and less expensive, while multi-ply is thicker and more absorbent. Now the question comes to the mind - how toilet paper is made? Toilet paper is made from pulp, which can come from a variety of sources, including trees, bamboo, and recycled paper. The pulp is mixed with water and chemicals to break it down into fibres, which are then pressed and dried to form sheets of toilet paper. Finally, the paper is rolled onto large spools and cut into individual rolls for use in homes and businesses. There is a long and varied history of toilet paper, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient China and Rome, and it has been made from a wide range of materials including paper, leaves, and even seashells. The modern version we use today, made from soft, absorbent paper, was first introduced in the mid-19th century and has since become a ubiquitous household item around the world. When it comes to choosing between soft and strong toilet paper, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Soft toilet paper is typically gentler on the skin and is often preferred by those with sensitive skin. Strong toilet paper, on the other hand, is more durable and less likely to tear, making it a popular choice in households with multiple users. Be Eco – Beco.
While such stunts certainly underlie the significance of our habits, there is an eviller implication too: our consumption and manufacturing practices.
The market for toilet paper is still rife with virgin pulp toilet paper. The situation is worsened by a certain policy introduced in 2010. India permitted Chinese and Burmese imported toilet paper, which are 45% cheaper than Indian manufactured brands.
With cheaper goods come new consumer expectations. Casual shoppers are less likely to look at a label anyhow. With significantly inexpensive options, it is not just penny-pinchers and super-shoppers opting for the most cost-effective selection.
The natural response of Indian manufacturers is quite obvious: cut costs and slash prices. Aside from importing Chinese pulp, manufacturers are also disregarding more costly methods, including the use of recyclables. That means more reckless clear-cutting of native forests throughout the country and around the world. After all, the time required to digest and expunge is far less than that needed to grow a tree.
Not all is negative, however. Some progress is being made. Perhaps more due to digitization than conservation, we are using less paper than before. A case-in-point is the Indian Conservation Fund. It managed to consume a staggering 30% less paper in 2015/16 compared to 2017/18. This is a change from 250,000 A4 sheets to 180,000.
In regards to negative aspects of recycled toilet paper, conscious consumers and the logging industry are both quick to point out that recycled paper is rife with BPA and BPS, known for inhibiting estrogenic glands. Such chemicals are easily absorbed through the skin, so wiping with recycled paper can seem an assuredly bad idea. However, what people fail to mention is that near all paper products contain BPA and BPS, from currency to concert tickets. In other words, BPA and BPS exposure is inescapable. Be Eco – Beco.
FAQs:
1. What is recycled toilet paper made from?
Recycled toilet paper is made from recycled paper waste such as old newspaper, office paper, and other paper products that have been processed to make them safe for use as toilet paper.
2. Does bamboo toilet paper block drains?
Bamboo toilet paper typically does not block drains as long as it is used and disposed of properly. Some users have reported minor clogging issues, but this is not a widespread issue with bamboo toilet paper.
3. Does bamboo toilet paper leave lint?
Bamboo toilet paper may leave some lint, but it is generally less linty than traditional toilet paper made from virgin pulp. The amount of lint depends on the quality of the paper and the manufacturing process used.
4. Pros and Cons of Bamboo toilet paper?
Pros of Bamboo Toilet Paper:
Environmentally friendly: Bamboo is a highly renewable resource that grows quickly and does not require large amounts of water or pesticides to grow.
Strong and durable: Bamboo fibers are naturally strong, making bamboo toilet paper more durable and less likely to tear.
Soft and gentle: Bamboo toilet paper is known for its softness and gentle feel, making it suitable for use on sensitive skin.
Sustainably sourced: Many best bamboo toilet paper brands source their bamboo from sustainable, responsibly managed forests.
Cons of Bamboo Toilet Paper:
Price: Bamboo toilet paper is often more expensive than traditional toilet paper made from virgin pulp.
Availability: Bamboo toilet paper may be less widely available than traditional toilet paper, and may not be found at all grocery stores.
Quality: Not all bamboo toilet paper is created equal, and some brands may use chemicals or other harmful substances during the manufacturing process. It's important to carefully read product labels and choose a high-quality, environmentally friendly brand.
5. What are alternate toilet paper options?
While traditional toilet paper is the most common option, there are several alternatives available for those looking to reduce their environmental impact or simply try something new. Some popular alternatives include bidets, which use water to clean after using the toilet, reusable cloth wipes, and even products made from bamboo or recycled materials. While these options may require a bit of adjustment, they can be a great way to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the bathroom.
6. What is the best environmentally friendly toilet paper?
The best environmentally friendly toilet paper can vary depending on personal preference and the criteria used to determine its eco-friendliness. However, some options that are considered to be environmentally friendly include:
Brands made from responsibly sourced, virgin pulp from sustainably managed forests, such as Green Forest.
Toilet paper made from 100% recycled paper, as long as it is free of harmful chemicals such as BPA and BPS.
Zero waste toilet paper, although the process of turning bamboo into toilet paper is not as sustainable as it seems, and shipping bamboo from overseas results in a significant carbon footprint.
Ultimately, reducing our overall consumption of zero waste toilet paper is the best way to protect the environment. Investing in a bidet or a reusable cloth is an excellent way to cut down on the amount of tissue used.
So, the most environmentally friendly toilet paper would be one that is used sparingly, regardless of its origin.
7. What is the proper way to dispose of the toilet paper?
The proper way to dispose of toilet paper is to simply throw it in the toilet and flush it away. However, it's important to avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, as items such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, and dental floss can cause clogs and damage to plumbing systems. If you are in an area with a septic system, it's also important to avoid using excessive amounts of toilet paper, as this can lead to clogs and backups in the system.
