Bamboo Tissue Paper May Not Be as Eco-Friendly as You Think
6 months ago
- #sustainability
- #bamboo-tissue
- #carbon-footprint
- Bamboo tissue paper from China may not be as eco-friendly as believed due to higher emissions from coal-reliant power grids.
- Research from NC State University found Chinese bamboo tissue emits 2,400 kg CO2eq/ton, compared to 1,824 kg CO2eq/ton for U.S. wood-based tissue.
- Bamboo production processes are similar to wood, and emissions differences disappear in regions with cleaner energy grids.
- The study highlights that production technology, not fiber type, is more critical for reducing carbon footprints.
- Chinese bamboo tissue also underperforms in smog formation, respiratory effects, and ecotoxicity compared to wood-based options.
- The Sustainable & Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI) at NC State supports research on fiber sustainability.