Is Bamboo Toilet Paper Better Than Recycled?

Bamboo toilet paper offers a sustainable alternative to traditional options which is damaging to the environment. Its rapid growth and antibacterial properties make it eco-friendly and hygienic. Compared to recycled, bamboo toilet paper is softer and more absorbent, reducing its environmental impact while providing comfort. 

Bamboo vs. Recycled Toilet Paper: Which is Greener?

When it comes to choosing eco-friendly toilet paper, bamboo and recycled options are popular choices. But what makes them different, and which one is better for the environment? Let's explore the unique features of bamboo and 100% recycled toilet paper to help you make an informed decision.

Bamboo Toilet Paper

Bamboo toilet paper is made from bamboo, a type of grass that grows quickly and doesn't need pesticides or fertilisers to thrive. Because bamboo grows fast, it can be harvested more sustainably than trees used for traditional toilet paper. Plus, bamboo has natural antibacterial properties, which means it's good for hygiene too.

100% Recycled Toilet Paper

Recycled toilet paper is made from post-consumer recycled paper, like old newspapers and magazines. Instead of cutting down new trees, this paper is given a new life, which helps save forests and reduce waste. By using recycled paper, we can also save energy and water compared to making paper from scratch.

Differences

Bamboo toilet paper is great because bamboo grows quickly and doesn't need as much water or land as trees. It's also naturally germ-resistant, which is good for keeping things clean. However, some bamboo toilet paper is bleached to make it white, which can use chemicals that aren't so good for the environment. On the other hand, recycled toilet paper helps save trees and reduce waste, but the recycling process can still use a lot of energy and water, and sometimes chemicals too.

Which is Better?

Both bamboo toilet paper and recycled have their advantages when it comes to being eco-friendly. By choosing either one, you're helping to make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you prefer the rapid renewability of bamboo or the waste-reducing qualities of recycled paper, making a green choice for your toilet paper can make a big difference for the planet.

References

• Environmental Paper Network. (n.d.). Bamboo as a source of fibre. Environmental Paper Network.
• Lu, X., & Song, J. (2020). Sustainable production of bamboo pulp and paper: A review. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 156, 104702. DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2019.104702
• Stora Enso. (2020). How recycled paper is made. Stora Enso.
• The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). (2021). The Environmental Benefits of Recycling Paper. NRDC.
• Wang, X., & Sun, Y. (2017). Utilisation of bamboo in toilet paper manufacturing. Bamboo Science and Culture, 30(2), 49-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s12231-017-9392-y]