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While we all try to contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet, some sources of environmental pollution may surprise us. One of these unexpected culprits is PFAS contamination, which turns out to be hiding in a surprising source: recycled toilet paper. Although we usually associate toilet paper rolls with hygiene and comfort, they turn out to be a significant source of PFAS pollution. But what is PFAS exactly? And where does it come from?
What is PFAS exactly?
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS for short, are a group of chemical substances developed for their useful properties to be water-, fat-, dirt- and dust-repellent. These properties make PFAS extremely suitable for a variety of industrial applications. However, these chemical compounds have a dark side. They are very persistent, meaning they do not easily break down in the environment, and they can be harmful to human and animal health.
What does PFAS contain?
PFAS has found its way into a surprising range of products, including lubricants, food packaging materials, firefighting foam, pans, clothing, textiles, cosmetics, food and thus also toilet paper. This makes it a ubiquitous and alarming substance in our daily lives. The versatility of PFAS has led to its spread in both industrial and household products, making exposure to these harmful substances widespread.
What are the risks to health and the environment?
Although the amounts of PFAS found in toilet paper are small, the presence of PFAS in toilet paper is still worrying. Because it is a product used daily by millions of people, all the toilet paper that is flushed could add up to a significant contribution to total PFAS pollution. When toilet paper with PFAS is flushed, it can end up in the sewage water and then end up in rivers and oceans. This has significant implications for the environment and health. Even purified sewage water does not have to be PFAS-free. PFAS contamination can cause problems even after sewage water purification, as some PFAS compounds are difficult to completely remove during water purification processes.
Scientific studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can have adverse effects on the immune system, reproduction and development. Exceeding PFAS limits can lead to serious health risks, including cancer. In addition, PFAS contamination has harmful effects on nature, such as fertility problems in animals and deforestation.
Which toilet paper is best for the environment?
When looking for environmentally friendly toilet paper options, consumers should look for products that are biodegradable, contain no chemicals, and are made in a sustainable way. Choosing toilet paper without PFAS is essential to reduce the spread of this harmful substance. Using bamboo toilet paper is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers, as it is known to be a sustainable toilet paper that is quickly renewable. Bamboi toilet paper, for example, is chemical- and PFAS-free, and therefore not harmful.
What about PFAS in Bamboi toilet paper?
When looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to toilet paper, Bamboi bamboo toilet paper is an extremely suitable choice. Bamboo is biodegradable and grows quickly, making it a more sustainable option. Bamboi toilet paper is free of PFAS and meets strict environmental standards. So if you want to contribute to a cleaner environment and protect the health of yourself, your housemates and/or family, consider switching to Bamboi bamboo toilet paper. More information about our toilet paper can be found on our product page.
How can you make a difference?
As a consumer, you have the power to promote positive changes. By making conscious choices and choosing toilet paper products that are produced with consideration for the environment and are free from PFAS, you also play your part in contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet. Moreover, you can also encourage manufacturers to offer environmentally friendly and PFAS-free options, thus paving the way for a cleaner and greener environment that no longer 'rolls' in problems. And by purchasing Bamboi toilet paper, you're already rolling a long way in the right direction. Hop over to the webshop for Bamboi toilet paper!
