A Sustainable Solution: Meet Thrive Market Paper Products

At Thrive Market, we’re always working to develop sustainable solutions for everyday basics. From natural body care essentials to eco-friendly cleaning products, we think it’s important to go beyond the kitchen to provide options that are better for you and the planet. One category where we particularly hope to have a big impact is paper products.

“People read the labels before buying food, but when it comes to toilet paper and paper towels, they tend to think less about the consequences of their purchases,” says Lecia Rand, Thrive Market Product Innovator. “Which is why it is vital for us to educate consumers on the difference, and to offer sustainable alternatives.”

The Problem With Paper Products

The overuse of household paper products—like toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissue—is contributing to environmental destruction at an alarming rate. Reports show the average American uses 141 rolls of toilet paper per year, which accounts for 20% of the world’s global toilet paper consumption.

Adding to the issue, major brands primarily use virgin tree pulp—which comes from trees that are clear-cut from ancient forests—to get a pillowy, soft texture. The pulp also undergoes an intense chemical bleaching process that releases harmful dioxins into the air and water. All of this is taking a toll on our forests and wildlife, and it’s contributing to global warming. According to the National Resources Defense Council, “Creating products using 100 percent virgin fiber generates three times as much carbon as products made from other types of pulp.”

Luckily, there are some eco-friendly solutions out there—and we’re proud to offer our very own. We partnered with a cutting-edge supplier to develop paper products that are not only soft and strong, but also sustainable.

Eco-Friendly & Effective

“You won’t find any fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals in our paper products,” says Rand. “Each one is made from renewable or sustainable materials, whitened without chlorine-bleach, and manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility that ensures minimal environmental impact.”

Thrive Market Bath Tissue and Facial Tissue are made from a blend of soft bamboo fibers and post-consumer recycled content. Our bamboo comes from China’s Sichuan province, where—nourished by rainwater—it grows naturally on the property of local farmers. Sourcing it from small villages within 15 miles of the mill (rather than large plantations) not only promotes biodiversity and supports communities, but also cuts down on emissions. Bamboo gives our bath and facial tissues a soft texture that is more comfortable than products made solely of recycled content.

What’s so great about bamboo? It grows to maturity in just two years, compared to 40 years for the average hardwood tree. Bamboo doesn’t require any fertilizers or pesticides to grow, either. Plus, paper products made from bamboo release 30 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than those made from virgin wood.

Rosey Paper Towels are made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled content, which is composed of material that would have otherwise been diverted to a landfill after one use. Using post-consumer recycled content not only cuts back on environmental waste, but also requires less energy than virgin pulp. Plus, the paper towels are sized so you can choose a standard-size or a half sheet, so each roll lasts longer. They’re ultra absorbent and handle life’s messes with ease.

Make the Switch

The simple act of opting for products that are made from renewable or recyclable materials makes a big impact on the future of the planet.

“470,000 trees could be saved a year if everyone in the United States used just one of our eco-friendly bath tissue rolls instead of a traditional roll,” says Rand.

Ready to make the switch? Shop consciously and stock up on all three Thrive Market Goods products today.