Businesses as well as consumers are becoming more and more aware of how their actions and the products and services they use can impact the environment.
This includes seeking sustainable alternatives that leave a lighter footprint on the planet for some of the everyday products we have all traditionally used.
One area of focus is washroom paper products, where the debate between using recycled paper and sustainably sourced forestry has gained significant momentum.
While recycled paper products are often referred to as eco-friendly, the reality is far more subtle than this. Sustainable forestry, a practice that involves responsibly managing and replenishing forest resources, has grown in popularity as a superior choice for washroom paper products, especially for those considering environmental impact, quality, and efficiency.
Environmental impact
It isn’t widely known, but sustainably managed forests also have a significant role when it comes to combating climate change. This is because forests act as ‘carbon sinks’, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in trees and soil.
By harvesting trees responsibly and replanting new ones, sustainable forestry helps maintain this critical carbon balance, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and preserving biodiversity.
By comparison, recycled paper production still carries environmental costs. The recycling process consumes significant amounts of energy and water, and contaminants present in recycled paper pulp can compromise product quality and necessitate additional processing steps.
Quality and efficiency
When it comes to washroom paper products, quality and efficiency are paramount considerations. Afterall, products derived from sustainably managed forests often boast superior durability, softness, and absorbency compared to their recycled counterparts.
In addition, sustainable forests allow for cultivating specific tree species optimised for paper production, resulting in higher-quality fibres and enhanced product performance.
Moreover, sustainable forestry practices ensure a reliable and consistent supply of raw materials, minimising the risk of supply chain disruptions.
Recycled paper, on the other hand, is subject to fluctuations in availability and quality, as it relies on the collection and processing of post-consumer waste.
Our conclusion
While recycled paper has its plus points in certain applications, the benefits of sustainable forestry for washroom paper products are undeniable.
By supporting responsibly managed forests, businesses and consumers can uphold environmental stewardship while enjoying superior quality and efficiency in their everyday essentials.
Speak to the EducationCare team about switching your school washroom paper solutions to a more sustainable product through our unique partnership with the Metsä Group, global leaders in sustainable paper.
Many of EducationCare’s clients, especially those in corporate environments, are increasingly prioritising sustainability and social responsibility.
The UK education sector could save substantial sums by cutting or eliminating fees paid to procurement companies like ESPO and the Litmus Partnership.
Download our FREE school handwashing poster to display within washrooms, to assist schools in encouraging children to wash their hands properly.
