# Toilet Paper Use and Environmental Impact Survey

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/02/toilet-paper-use-and-environmental-impact-survey/
- Published: 2012-02-13T05:59:39-05:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## Study: Americans Won’t Cut Toilet Paper Use—Even for the Environment

A new survey reveals an uncomfortable truth: most Americans won’t give up their 
toilet paper habits, even to help the planet. While they support many eco-friendly
actions, cutting back on toilet paper isn’t one of them.

### Convenience Still Wins

According to a 2012 survey by Georgia-Pacific, 74% of Americans say they would not
reduce toilet paper use to protect the environment. Even though consumers say they
care about sustainability, convenience still dominates their choices. In fact, many
people see toilet paper as a non-negotiable comfort—something they aren’t willing
to compromise on.

At the same time, nearly half of respondents said they had taken steps to be greener
in the bathroom. This includes switching to recycled toilet paper, using fewer sheets,
or choosing brands with sustainable sourcing. However, when asked directly whether
they’d be willing to use less, most said no.

![A stack of eco friendly toilet paper rolls printed with minimalist nature themed
designs](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/E02D77AA-
0D86-42FE-8C0A-C7C49B6A84D2.jpeg?resize=474%2C711&quality=52&ssl=1 "E02D77AA-0D86-
42FE-8C0A-C7C49B6A84D2 - The Green Living Guy")

Eco friendly toilet paper made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials promotes
conservation and waste reduction

### Cultural Habits and Resistance to Change

Experts suggest that cultural norms play a big role. Americans are used to comfort
and convenience, especially in personal care routines. As a result, behavior change
becomes harder—even when people understand the environmental cost. Toilet paper 
production requires significant water,[ energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/10-largest-wind-project-development-2022/),
and tree fiber. Yet, because it’s seen as essential, reducing use is rarely discussed.

Even better alternatives, like bidets or reusable cloths, face resistance in the
U.S., unlike in many parts of Europe and Asia. That’s because these options require
a shift in mindset and routine.

### Small Steps Still Matter

Although most won’t cut back entirely, the survey did find some silver linings. 
About 53% of people said they’re more aware of [eco-labels and sustainability claims](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/08/eco-labeling-making-greener-choices-simplified/)
when buying paper products. That’s a start. Brands that offer recycled content, 
FSC certification, or minimal packaging continue to gain ground with environmentally
conscious shoppers.

So while cutting usage may be off the table for now, buying better products is a
realistic step forward.

### The Bottom Line

Toilet paper may seem like a small issue, but it reflects a bigger challenge in 
sustainability: the gap between awareness and action. Until [cultural attitudes shift](https://greenlivingguy.com/2026/06/gas-station-closure-a-cultural-shift-ahead/),
major changes in consumption may stay out of reach. Still, each roll made with greener
practices is a step in the right direction.

Sources:

 * [Georgia-Pacific Sustainability](https://www.gp.com/sustainability)
 * [NRDC: Issue with Tissue Report](https://www.nrdc.org/resources/issues-tissue-how-consumers-are-pushing-companies-clean-their-toilet-paper)
 * EPA Paper Facts

**Source: Nitro**

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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