Toilet paper shortage occurred in 2020 due to panic-buying and hoarding, which quickly depleted stocks. The sudden increase in demand was fueled by the shelter-in-place orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic, which prompted people to purchase large amounts of household goods. Another reason for the sudden increase in demand is that people actually needed more toilet paper during the pandemic. With people staying at home because of business closings and shelter-in-place orders, the demand for consumer toilet paper skyrocketed while the demand for commercial toilet paper decreased.
The toilet paper shortage is more complicated than just a supply chain issue. The root cause is a shortage of raw materials needed to make toilet paper. The pulp and paper industry is the largest global consumer of virgin wood, using about 35% of harvested trees for the manufacture of paper. It is a major contributor to deforestation and thereby to biodiversity loss, soil erosion, species extinction, and ecosystem disruptions.
There are ethical and eco-friendly toilet paper options available, with some recommended brands scoring highly. The New York Times Wirecutter reviewed 36 types of toilet paper and recommended Seventh Generation 100% Recycled Extra Soft & Strong Bath Tissue, Charmin Ultra Strong, and Amazon’s Presto! Ultra-Soft Toilet Paper.
Positive:
- There are eco-friendly and ethical toilet paper options available.
- The New York Times Wirecutter reviewed 36 types of toilet paper and recommended three options.
Negative:
- The root cause of the toilet paper shortage is a shortage of raw materials needed to make toilet paper.
- The pulp and paper industry is a major contributor to deforestation and other environmental issues.
Ingredients or materials:
- Toilet paper is made from raw materials such as virgin pulp.
