Archive · 10 Jan 2026
Eco-Friendly Toilet Papers Have Varied Environmental Impacts
Toilet paper is usually made from trees and can harm the environment.
More people want toilet paper that is better for the planet, like those made from recycled paper or sustainable materials.
These eco-friendly options can save a lot of water and trees.
Experts say looking for recycled content and special labels can help you choose the most sustainable toilet paper.
However, these options often cost more.
But if more people buy them, the prices might go down.
Big companies are also working to be more sustainable by reducing greenhouse gases and using recycled materials.
Toilet paper is typically made from trees, using energy-intensive processes and chemicals that can pollute the environment.
Consumers are increasingly seeking toilet paper made from recycled content or sustainable materials.
Sustainable toilet paper can save significant amounts of water and trees, but often costs more.
Experts recommend looking for recycled content and third-party sustainability labels like Forest Stewardship Council or Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
The Natural Resources Defense Council publishes an annual report grading toilet papers based on sustainability criteria, with top brands being Aria, Green Forest, Natural Value, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods 365 100% Recycled.
- Who
- Consumers, manufacturers, environmental advocates, and industry associations
- What
- The environmental impacts of eco-friendly toilet papers and recommendations for sustainable choices
- When
- Ongoing trend with notable developments since 2019
- Where
- North America, particularly focusing on Canada and Brazil
- Why
- To reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices in the toilet paper industry
- Water Saved
- 1 billion gallons (3.8 billion liters)
- Trees Saved
- 1.6 million trees
- Recycled Content
- Preconsumer and postconsumer materials
- Bleaching Techniques
- Chlorine-free bleaching
- Sustainability Labels
- Forest Stewardship Council, Sustainable Forestry Initiative
- Highest-Ranked Brands
- Aria, Green Forest, Natural Value, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods 365 100% Recycled
- Sustainable Brands Emergence
- Dozens since 2019
- Industry Focus
- Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and responsible forestry practices