Recycled Paper Towels vs. Traditional Paper Towels
Are you tired of constantly restocking your paper towel supply? Do you want to make a more sustainable choice but aren't sure where to start? Look no further because we've got all the information you need to compare recycled paper towels vs. traditional paper towels and make an informed decision.
What are recycled paper towels?
Recycled paper towels are made from post-consumer recycled content, which means they are made from paper that has already been used and then processed to create a new product. The recycled content percentage can vary between brands, but on average, it's around 60-80%.
What are traditional paper towels?
Traditional paper towels are made from virgin wood pulp, which means they are made from fresh cut trees. The paper pulp undergoes a chemical process to create the final product.
Environmental Impact
When it comes to the environmental impact, there's no doubt that recycled paper towels are the winner. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling 1 ton of paper saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 463 gallons of oil.
Furthermore, producing recycled paper towels requires less energy and produces less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional paper towels. On average, recycled paper towels generate 50% less greenhouse gas emissions during production than traditional paper towels.
Durability
One common argument against using recycled paper towels is that they are less durable than traditional paper towels. However, studies have shown that there is minimal difference in the durability of recycled vs. traditional paper towels.
Cost
The cost of recycled paper towels can vary depending on the brand and retailer, but on average, they are slightly more expensive than traditional paper towels. However, the difference in cost is minimal and can be justified to support sustainable practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while traditional paper towels may appear to be cheaper and more convenient, the reality is that using recycled paper towels is a much more sustainable choice. They use less energy, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and conserve resources, all while providing the same level of durability. So the next time you reach for a roll of paper towels, make the eco-friendly choice and choose recycled!