Eco Toilet Paper Gains Ground, But Green Claims Differ

Eco-friendly toilet paper is gaining popularity as consumers look for ways to reduce their environmental footprint, but experts warn that not all “green” options deliver the same benefits.

Conventional toilet paper is typically made from virgin wood pulp, a process that involves cutting down trees, heavy water use, high energy consumption and chemical treatments that can pollute air and waterways. In contrast, products made with recycled fibres can significantly reduce environmental damage.

Environmental researchers estimate that if every American used just one roll of recycled toilet paper, more than one billion gallons of water and about 1.6 million trees could be saved. Toilet paper produced from post-consumer recycled fibres — paper that has already been used and recovered — is widely considered the most sustainable choice.

Certification labels such as those from the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative indicate compliance with verified sustainability standards. Annual rankings by environmental groups have consistently placed brands made entirely from recycled materials among the top performers.

Bamboo and other fast-growing plant-based alternatives are often marketed as eco-friendly, but their true impact depends heavily on how and where they are produced. Experts note that energy-intensive manufacturing and reliance on coal-based power, particularly in parts of Asia, can significantly reduce the environmental advantages of these materials.

Bidets offer another effective way to cut toilet paper use altogether. By cleaning with water, bidets can sharply reduce paper consumption and waste. Basic bidet attachments are relatively affordable, while more advanced models with features such as heated water and air dryers come at a higher cost.

Although sustainable toilet paper products often carry a higher price tag, experts say growing consumer demand could bring prices down over time. They stress that everyday purchasing decisions play a crucial role in encouraging manufacturers to adopt more environmentally responsible practices and expand access to greener hygiene products.