3 Fun Ways to Celebrate National Toilet Paper Day 2023

Aug 23, 2023
2 min read

Get the seat warmed up, National Toilet Paper Day is coming on August 26th 2023!
On this day we celebrate the first time toilet paper was sold on a roll on August 26th 1871.

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Toilet paper has come a long way throughout history, evolving from leaves to 3-ply plushness, and remains a staple on our shopping list. Considering we Australians use about 88 rolls of toilet paper per year - each - there is a need to reevaluate the impact of our choices and select a product that doesn’t cost the Earth.

Read on to learn about the evolution of sustainable toilet paper and our quirky ideas to celebrate National Toilet Paper Day!

The Evolution of Toilet Paper

Starting off as anything from stones, leaves and sea sponges, the first paper product was created in China in the 14th century.

Move ahead to 1857, and toilet paper, or rather, “medicated paper for the water-closet” becomes commercially available in the western world. The first rolls became available on August 26th 1871, and toilet paper quickly imprinted itself as an essential item for esteemed individuals.

Toilet paper continued to change and develop over time in an effort to be as luxurious as possible.

Imagine being there the day that toilet paper was advertised to finally be ‘splinter free’ in 1930.

And, unclench.

Toilet paper production has traditionally been one of the biggest causes of global deforestation.

What’s so bad about deforestation?

It destroys habitats and ecosystems which can result in wildlife endangerment or extinction. 150 years ago, toilet paper was made exclusively from virgin fibres: this meant cutting down trees that create the oxygen we breathe and absorb carbon dioxide gas in our atmosphere.

The process of creating virgin toilet paper is environmentally costly and contributes to climate change.

The Introduction of Recycled Toilet Paper

Well into the 21st century, recycled toilet paper began to take its place on our shelves.Forward thinking companies endeavour to persuade consumers to take advantage of sustainable resources: as such they are able to return a profit without causing damage to the environment. 100% recycled and biodegradable paper products from icare are produced from high quality paper. icare is Forest Stewardship Council Certified. The FSC promotes the viable management of the world’s forests and recognises the vital role reclaimed material plays in protecting them.

Why is Recycled Toilet Paper Better Than Non-Recycled?

In an effort to reach our national sustainability targets we must reduce transport of products and associated emissions. Carting resources from A to B adds a whole lot of mileage on the carbon odometer. Choosing locally made products keeps transport emissions to a minimum while supporting Australian jobs. Traditional toilet paper production eats up a large amount of energy and water. Recycled products use far less of both; for every tonne of recycled toilet paper purchased you are saving 4,100 kwh of power, 3.1m3 of landfill and 26,500L of water

icare’s recommendations to celebrate the day

Play some games using toilet rolls that will add hype to this momentous occasion (without using up rolls for non-wiping purposes).

1. Over or Under?

For any decision that could be settled with the flip of a coin, toss a roll of toilet paper in the air as one person ‘calls it’ (either under or over). Whichever way the roll lands, with the free end hanging either over or tucked under, determines the winner!

2. Toilegami:

Origami using toilet paper, yes it’s a thing, and it is oh so pretty.

3. Naughts and Crosses:

Choose an item to be your cross, and use the toilet paper rolls as the naughts. Play the iconic game in jumbo mode on the ground or a grid-style shelf if you have one. Mounting this game on the wall adds a quirky decoration to your guest bathroom.

The Final Flush

Toilet paper has certainly solidified its role in modern-day society, and sustainability is essential to ensure it still exists in the future. Virgin toilet paper production contributes to the destruction of ecosystems and reduces our natural air filtration of carbon; recycled toilet paper production has far less negative environmental impact. Choosing locally made products reduces your carbon footprint further, by minimising emissions associated with importation.

Join in the celebrations this National Toilet Paper Day: play one of our fun games or invent your own!