Flushing Forests

Worldwide, the equivalent of almost 270,000 trees is either flushed or dumped in landfills every day and roughly 10 percent of that total is attributable to toilet paper, according to the latest issue of World Watch magazine.


"Meanwhile, growing populations, adoption of Western lifestyles, and sanitation improvements in developing countries are driving the increased use of toilet paper," the Worldwide Watch magazine added. "The result is that forests in both the global North and South are under assault by paper companies competing to fill consumer demand."

But this increase in toilet paper use does not only take place in developed countries...worldwide, developing countries are increasingly increasing rates of toilet paper usage much more than developed countries in some cases. For example, China correlates increased use of toilet paper with advancements in sanitation and improved health outcomes. Other developing countries make this connection as well. South Africa, for example, is undergoing an entrepreneurial revolution in public toilet management and sanitation.

Solutions: Possible?

Some environmentalists advocate personal washing. In Japan, the washlets are installed in many Japanese families and public places. But many cultures around the world may not be able to adapt so easily. Perhaps less idealistic solutions like using recycled toilet paper and reducing the usgae of toilet paper may sink down well with some consumers. As some consumers shared that the usage of toilet paper is a 'personal thing', long-held habits about sanitation may not be easily shaken for the environment. Unlike cutting down the use of paper or plastic bags, toilet paper is a non-elastic commodity, and the least to be thought of in environmental conservation. But does it mean it is impossible? At least I know, attitudes must change, and perhaps one day, technology may come up with even more innovative ways of cleaning your lower body......