Is Eco-Friendly Toilet Paper Full of Shit?
When it’s time to clean, what’s really the best way to be green?
It’s not an easy sell. ‘Recycled toilet paper’ hurls into your mind a distasteful image of a stained brown roll of coarse paper with a smell of sewage. Why would you want to use THAT?!
Is this why some brands individually wrap their toilet rolls, so we can’t see or smell them?!
You see an advert on Facebook for sustainable toilet rolls and can’t help but notice the laughing emojis. People think it’s funny — no, they think THEY are funny — to paint a picture of using soiled toilet paper to wipe more dirt from their behinds.
It was always going to happen. Recycled and ‘green’ toilet paper were always going to be the butt of jokes.
The reality — in case you still don’t know — is very different. And there’s a really serious environmental case for steering well clear of the type of deluxe moisturised petal-soft material that caresses your rear cheeks.
If you’re turning your nose up at this because you’re one of the 70 per cent in the world who never wipe with paper, but instead use a bidet or some sort of hose or spray to clean after you’ve been, you’ll want to read on, too.
If you’re one of those people who simply never cleans… I have no words at all…
Why use eco-friendly toilet paper?
The product exists because of the devastating environmental damage we do to our forests, all to keep our bums clean.
About 27,000 trees are cut down every DAY for the sole purpose of making toilet paper.
We are literally felling 1,125 mature trees every HOUR, just so we can wipe on something luxurious.
That’s logging 10 MILLION trees each year to save our asses.
One felled tree will produce between 800 and 1500 toilet rolls, depending on the size of the tree and the roll, of course.
The United States leads the world in using toilet paper. I’m sure that’s due to the population and there is no correlation between amount used and size of rear ends…
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) warns:
“Most toilet roll is made from virgin wood pulp, threatening forest areas worldwide with deforestation.”
A Greenpeace report linked toilet paper manufacturing to rainforest destruction, and claimed that the world’s second-largest tissue maker, Essity, was “directly linked to the ongoing destruction of the critical forest landscapes” in Sweden, claiming it was “having significant negative impacts on more than 1,300 red-listed species”.
So we’ve got a problem in layers here. Sure, layers make sure your fingers don’t push through into the abyss, but they also illustrate the problem.
Virgin trees are being sacrificed the most to make toilet paper. It’s impossible to justify that, because toilet paper is the most disposable of all products. It’s used for a few seconds then flushed into… who knows where…
If it was writing paper, most of us would be quite happy to use recycled as an alternative, to help save the planet’s resources.
But not everyone is keen on using recycled toilet paper. It’s that image…
So think again.
And then, actually, think again.
What’s so good about recycled toilet paper?
Firstly, recycled paper is safe, clean and far more eco-friendly than non-recycled toilet paper.
Because it’s not just the trees that suffer, and the wildlife habitats that go along with the clearing.
Bleach and other chemicals are used in the production of toilet paper. Recycled paper requires less bleach than virgin pulp — some recycled rolls are completely chlorine free.
Also, about 140 litres of water is required for a single roll. Recycled papers use half that amount.
Regular toilet paper is SO wasteful.
But the use of recycled fibres for toilet paper has been declining in recent years, so that particular alley might be closing.
What alternatives are there to toilet paper?
Again, the 70 per cent who wash and don’t wipe are reading open-mouthed, but for most of the Western world, you’ll have to read on…
Bamboo is fast becoming the answer to a lot of eco ‘alternative’ questions. As it is technically a grass, companies using it claim not to cut down any trees…
That aside, bamboo is more sustainable because it is the fastest growing plant in the world.
Products created from bamboo also release 30% fewer greenhouse gases than those made from virgin wood.
The only problem is the carbon footprint of bamboo toilet roll, as depending on your location, it often has to be shipped thousands of miles.
Just to end up… up in our ends.
So why don’t we just have a family cloth to use and share?
No seriously, that’s a question, because that’s what an increasing number of people are doing…
It really is referred to as a family cloth and it’s basically a piece of fabric that is used, washed and reused.
If you’re brave enough.
Why do 70 per cent of the world’s population use water to clean their behinds?
Well, the 70 percenters would turn that around and say “why the HELL are you wiping that stuff off with tissue?!”
So yes, it’s estimated that only 30 per cent of the world’s population uses toilet paper to clean their bottoms, with the rest using other methods — usually water, though soft leaves are another option.
Bidets are popular in countries where they can be afforded, being far more sustainable than toilet paper,
Now, it does of course require the valuable resource of water, but the average bidet uses only 0.6 litres of water per visit. So about 250 visits would use the same amount of water as for one toilet roll.
And modern toilets will use 1.6 gallons of water per flush, on top of this (older ones up to six gallons).
There are different amounts and powers of water preferred across the globe, from gentle jets to bidet showers, the latter especially popular across the Middle East and Asia.
Generally, you can sit there and air-dry or drip-dry.
Otherwise you’ll be using paper to finish off — and we’re back to square one.
So is eco-friendly toilet paper full of shit?
Well technically, yes. But in terms of their claims to help the environment, recycled and bamboo rolls are certainly far more beneficial to our planet than those made out of virgin pulp.
So save those trees. Don’t wipe them out.
The bottom line is — a wash with water is always going to kick paper’s butt.
About the Creator
Mark Campbell
Journalist and blogger, editor of greengreengreen.org, on a mission to inform, educate and entertain
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Britain in Talks With NATO to Boost Arctic Security
The Arctic Is No Longer a Frozen Backwater For decades, the Arctic sat quietly on the margins of global politics—remote, frozen, and largely ignored. That era is over. Britain is now in talks with NATO to strengthen Arctic security, acknowledging growing risks posed by Russia and China. In a notable shift, London’s assessment aligns closely with warnings long emphasized by Donald Trump, particularly as he continues to express strategic interest in Greenland. What once sounded like an eccentric fixation has evolved into a serious geopolitical conversation. The Arctic is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most contested regions, and Britain is positioning itself to play a larger role. Why Britain Is Paying Attention Now Although the UK is not an Arctic nation, it is an Arctic-adjacent power with significant strategic interests. British officials increasingly view the High North as critical to national and allied security. Melting ice is opening new shipping routes, exposing untapped natural resources, and making military movement easier than ever before. Britain’s talks with NATO focus on intelligence sharing, joint exercises, surveillance capabilities, and protecting undersea infrastructure such as communication cables and energy pipelines. These are not abstract concerns. Any disruption in the Arctic could have immediate consequences for European security and global trade. In short, what happens in the Arctic does not stay in the Arctic. Russia’s Expanding Arctic Footprint Russia is the dominant military power in the Arctic, and it is not slowing down. Moscow has reopened Soviet-era bases, deployed advanced missile systems, expanded its icebreaker fleet, and increased patrols across the region. The Arctic coastline represents a core part of Russia’s nuclear deterrent, making it strategically vital to the Kremlin. From NATO’s perspective, this military buildup creates both risk and uncertainty. Britain, which has long been vocal about Russian aggression—from Ukraine to cyber warfare—sees the Arctic as another front where deterrence must be strengthened before tensions spiral. The concern is not necessarily an immediate conflict, but miscalculation. In a region with harsh conditions and limited communication infrastructure, even minor incidents could escalate rapidly. China’s Quiet but Steady Arctic Ambitions While Russia’s presence is overt, China’s Arctic strategy is more subtle—and equally concerning to Western planners. Beijing calls itself a “near-Arctic state,” a label that has raised eyebrows in Europe and North America. Through investments, research stations, and partnerships, China is laying the groundwork for long-term influence. Britain shares NATO’s concern that China could use civilian projects for dual-use purposes, blending scientific research with intelligence gathering and infrastructure control. As Arctic shipping routes become commercially viable, China’s interest in controlling parts of the supply chain only grows. London’s alignment with these concerns reflects a broader shift in UK foreign policy: China is no longer viewed solely as an economic partner, but as a strategic competitor. Trump, Greenland, and Strategic Reality Donald Trump’s repeated interest in Greenland—most famously his suggestion that the United States should buy it—was widely mocked at the time. Yet behind the headlines was a strategic logic that many Western governments now openly acknowledge. Greenland sits at the heart of the Arctic, hosting vital air and naval routes between North America and Europe. It is also rich in rare earth minerals critical for modern technology and defense systems. As ice recedes, Greenland’s strategic value only increases. Britain’s current position, which aligns with Trump’s warnings about Arctic vulnerabilities, shows how quickly political perceptions can change. What once seemed unconventional now appears prescient. NATO’s Arctic Awakening NATO has traditionally focused on Eastern Europe and the North Atlantic. The Arctic, despite its importance, received less coordinated attention. That is changing. Britain’s talks with NATO reflect a broader alliance effort to integrate Arctic defense into its core strategy. This includes: Increased joint military exercises in cold-weather environments Enhanced monitoring of Russian and Chinese activity Strengthening cooperation with Arctic nations like Norway, Canada, and Denmark Protecting critical undersea and satellite infrastructure For Britain, this is also about credibility. As a leading NATO member and a key military power, the UK wants to demonstrate that it can contribute meaningfully beyond its immediate geography. Climate Change as a Security Multiplier One of the most striking aspects of Arctic security is how closely it is tied to climate change. Melting ice is not just an environmental issue—it is a strategic one. New sea lanes shorten travel between Asia and Europe, while access to oil, gas, and minerals becomes easier. This transformation increases competition and reduces natural barriers that once limited military movement. Britain’s involvement reflects recognition that climate-driven changes are reshaping the security landscape faster than traditional institutions were designed to handle. In this sense, Arctic security is a preview of future global challenges where environmental change and geopolitics collide. Domestic and Diplomatic Balancing Acts Britain’s Arctic engagement is not without challenges. Increased military involvement raises questions about defense spending, priorities, and escalation risks. Diplomatically, London must balance deterrence with dialogue, avoiding actions that could unnecessarily provoke Russia while still protecting allied interests. There is also the question of public awareness. Arctic security lacks the visibility of conflicts like Ukraine, making it harder to sustain political attention. Yet policymakers increasingly argue that prevention is cheaper—and safer—than crisis response. What This Means Going Forward Britain’s talks with NATO mark an important shift in how the Arctic is viewed: not as a distant frontier, but as a central arena in 21st-century security. Agreement with Trump-era assessments on Russia, China, and Greenland underscores how geopolitical realities can outlast political controversies. As competition intensifies, the Arctic will likely become a testing ground for cooperation, deterrence, and strategic foresight. Britain’s involvement signals that mid-sized powers are no longer content to watch from the sidelines. Final Thoughts The Arctic is warming faster than any other region on Earth—and so are the geopolitical tensions surrounding it. Britain’s move to boost Arctic security with NATO reflects a growing consensus that ignoring the High North is no longer an option. Whether driven by Russia’s militarization, China’s quiet expansion, or lessons drawn from Trump’s blunt warnings, one truth stands out: the future of global security may well be shaped at the top of the world, where ice, ambition, and power now intersect.
By Muhammad Hassan24 minutes ago in Earth
Milo Manheim
Milo Manheim has steadily built a reputation as one of Disney’s most recognizable young stars, thanks to his charm, musical talent, and approachable screen presence. Known widely for his breakout role in Disney Channel’s Zombies franchise, Manheim has now found himself at the center of online discussions surrounding Disney’s ambitious slate of live-action adaptations. Among these, the idea of a Tangled live action film has sparked intense fan curiosity, with Milo Manheim frequently mentioned in speculative casting conversations. While Disney has not officially confirmed every detail, the growing buzz around a Disney Tangled live action project reflects the enduring popularity of the animated classic and the excitement surrounding its potential cast. Milo Manheim’s Rise in Disney Entertainment Milo Manheim entered the spotlight with a natural ease that made him instantly relatable to younger audiences. As the son of actress Camryn Manheim, he inherited a strong foundation in performance, but his success has been distinctly his own. His work blends humor, sincerity, and musical confidence—qualities that align closely with Disney’s storytelling style. Beyond Disney Channel films, Manheim has expanded his range through stage performances and competitive television, proving he is more than a one-note actor. This versatility is one reason his name continues to appear in conversations about major Disney roles, including speculation around Tangled. Why Tangled Remains a Perfect Live-Action Candidate Released in 2010, Tangled reimagined the story of Rapunzel with humor, heart, and stunning animation. Over a decade later, it remains one of Disney’s most beloved modern fairy tales. The blend of adventure, romance, and self-discovery makes it especially suited for a live-action retelling. A live action Tangled film would follow Disney’s recent trend of revisiting animated favorites, offering a more grounded visual style while preserving the emotional core of the original. Fans are particularly interested in how the tangled live action cast would bring iconic characters to life, especially Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. Milo Manheim and the Flynn Rider Conversation One of the most common fan-driven theories places Milo Manheim in the role of Flynn Rider. The character’s mix of roguish confidence and underlying vulnerability aligns well with Manheim’s on-screen persona. Flynn Rider is not a traditional prince—he’s witty, flawed, and ultimately sincere, traits that Manheim has demonstrated across his performances. While Disney has not confirmed casting details, the speculation alone highlights how strongly audiences associate Manheim with roles that require both charisma and emotional depth. If chosen, he would join the broader tangled cast legacy that fans already adore. Rapunzel Live Action Casting Speculation Just as much attention surrounds the potential rapunzel live action cast. Rapunzel is a character defined by curiosity, resilience, and warmth, making her one of Disney’s most relatable heroines. Recently, online discussions have connected actress Teagan Croft to the role, leading to widespread interest in teagan croft tangled fan concepts. Croft, known for her compelling performances, brings a balance of strength and sensitivity that could translate well to a rapunzel live action portrayal. Interest in teagan croft movies and tv shows has grown alongside these casting rumors, as audiences imagine how she might embody the iconic princess. Building the Disney Tangled Live Action Cast A successful disney tangled cast live action would rely on chemistry as much as individual talent. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider’s relationship is central to the story, evolving from mistrust to mutual respect and love. Casting actors who can convincingly portray that journey will be key. Beyond the leads, characters like Mother Gothel and the supporting ensemble would also shape the film’s tone. Disney’s challenge lies in honoring the animated original while allowing actors to bring fresh interpretations. This balance has defined the success—or failure—of past live-action adaptations. The Importance of Staying True to the Story One reason Tangled has endured is its emotional honesty. At its heart, the film is about freedom, identity, and the courage to step into the unknown. A disney tangled live action adaptation must preserve these themes while adapting them for a new visual medium. Fans aren’t simply looking for a scene-by-scene remake; they want a story that feels familiar yet alive. With the right creative team and casting choices, the transition from animation to live action could deepen the emotional impact rather than dilute it. Milo Manheim’s Future Beyond Speculation Whether or not Milo Manheim becomes officially linked to tangled live action, the speculation itself reflects his growing influence in the industry. He represents a generation of actors shaped by Disney but not limited by it. His career choices suggest a desire to explore diverse roles while staying connected to the audience that supported his rise. As Disney continues to develop its live-action portfolio, actors like Manheim remain central to the conversation—not because of confirmed roles, but because audiences can already imagine them stepping into iconic characters. A Story Fans Are Ready to Revisit The excitement surrounding tangled live action cast discussions shows just how deeply the story still resonates. Rapunzel’s journey, Flynn Rider’s transformation, and the vibrant world of Tangled continue to inspire new generations of viewers. If and when Disney officially unveils its plans, the anticipation will only grow. Until then, the combination of Milo Manheim’s rising star power and the enduring magic of Tangled keeps fans engaged, hopeful, and eager to see how this beloved fairy tale might shine in live action.
By Saboor Brohi 4 days ago in Earth
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