Toilet paper, also known as Gulung Tisu Tandas in Malaysia, is an essential item in every household. It is a product that we use on a daily basis without much thought, but have you ever stopped to think about its impact on nature? From its humble beginnings to its current form, toilet paper has come a long way and has had a significant impact on our environment. In this article, we will explore the evolution of toilet paper and its impact on nature, looking at the different types of toilet paper, its production process, and what we can do to minimize its environmental impact.
The History of Toilet Paper: From Leaves to 2 Ply Tissue Paper
Toilet paper has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 6th century AD. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that toilet paper became widely used and available to the masses. Before toilet paper, people used leaves, stones, or even their hands to clean themselves after using the toilet. It wasn’t the most hygienic or comfortable method, but it was the norm.
In the early 1800s, paper started to be mass-produced, and people began using leftover paper scraps from newspapers and books as a substitute for toilet paper. However, this was not ideal as the paper was rough and could cause irritation and rashes. It wasn’t until 1857 when Joseph Gayetty introduced the first commercially sold toilet paper made from manila hemp that things started to change.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and toilet paper started to become softer and more comfortable to use. In 1942, inventor Walter Alcock created the first two-ply toilet paper, which was softer and stronger than single-ply paper. This innovation revolutionized the bathroom experience and set the standard for modern-day gulung tisu tandas.
Types of Toilet Paper: Virgin Pulp vs Recycled Paper
Today, there are two main types of toilet paper available on the market: virgin pulp and recycled paper. Virgin pulp toilet paper is made from freshly cut trees, while recycled paper uses post-consumer waste such as newspapers, magazines, and office papers. Let’s take a closer look at the production process and environmental impact of each type.
Virgin pulp toilet paper is made from 100% pure wood pulp, which is sourced from trees such as pine, eucalyptus, or birch. The process of making virgin pulp toilet paper involves harvesting and cutting down trees, chipping them into small pieces, and then processing them into paper using water and chemicals. This process requires a large amount of energy and resources, making it one of the most environmentally damaging industries.
According to an article published by The Guardian, the production of one ton of virgin pulp toilet paper requires 27 trees, 37,000 gallons of water, and 1,500 pounds of chemical products. Furthermore, the use of these chemicals can have harmful effects on the environment, leading to water pollution and the destruction of natural habitats for wildlife.
On the other hand, recycled paper toilet paper uses post-consumer waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. The production process involves collecting, sorting, and cleaning the waste paper, then breaking it down into pulp and turning it into new paper. This process requires less energy and resources compared to producing virgin pulp toilet paper, making it a more sustainable option.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using recycled paper toilet paper. The process of recycling paper can be water-intensive, and the end product may not be as soft as virgin pulp toilet paper. Additionally, recycled paper can contain traces of ink and chemicals from the original paper, which may not be suitable for sensitive skin.
The Rise of 2 Ply Tissue Paper: A More Sustainable Option
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards using 2 ply tissue paper, which is made from two layers of paper bonded together. This type of toilet paper is softer, thicker, and more absorbent than single-ply paper, providing a better cleaning experience. However, what sets 2 ply tissue paper apart is its sustainability.
Compared to single-ply paper, 2 ply tissue paper uses less paper per sheet, making it more environmentally friendly. It also requires less energy and resources to produce, making it a more sustainable option for those looking to minimize their environmental impact. Additionally, 2 ply tissue paper is often made from recycled paper, further reducing its carbon footprint.
The Impact of Toilet Paper on Nature: Deforestation and Water Pollution
Every year, millions of trees are cut down to make toilet paper, leading to deforestation. As mentioned earlier, the production of virgin pulp toilet paper requires a large amount of wood, water, and chemicals, all of which have a significant impact on the environment. Deforestation not only affects the natural habitats of animals but also contributes to climate change by reducing the absorption of carbon dioxide.
Moreover, the production of toilet paper also contributes to water pollution. The chemicals used in the production process can contaminate water sources, making them unsafe for aquatic life and humans who rely on these sources for drinking and irrigation. The use of virgin pulp also means that fewer trees are available to absorb and filter rainwater, leading to increased flooding and erosion.
What Can We Do to Minimize the Environmental Impact of Toilet Paper?
While we cannot completely eliminate the use of toilet paper, there are steps we can take to minimize its environmental impact.
- Opt for recycled paper toilet paper – Choosing toilet paper made from recycled paper reduces the demand for virgin pulp and helps to divert waste from landfills. Look for products that are certified by recognized organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
- Use less toilet paper – We often use more toilet paper than necessary, leading to wastage. Be mindful of how much you use and try to minimize the amount.
- Switch to a bidet or reusable cloths – Bidets are a more sustainable alternative to toilet paper, as they use water instead of paper. Reusable cloths made from natural fibers can also be used as a more eco-friendly option.
- Support sustainable companies – Do your research and support companies that prioritize sustainability in their production processes and use environmentally friendly materials.
- Recycle and compost – If you do use paper toilet paper, make sure to recycle the cardboard packaging. You can also compost used toilet paper in a home composting system.
In Conclusion
Toilet paper may seem like a small and insignificant item in our daily lives, but its impact on nature is significant. From its history to its production process, we have seen how toilet paper has evolved over the years and the effects it has on the environment. As consumers, we have the power to make more sustainable choices and reduce our impact on nature. So the next time you reach for that gulung tisu tandas, remember to choose wisely and make a difference for our planet.