Does 70 percent of the world not use toilet paper?

Beyond the Roll: Why 70% of the World Doesn’t Use Toilet Paper

The familiar roll of toilet paper, a staple in many Western bathrooms, is a surprisingly recent and geographically limited invention. While the convenience and perceived hygiene of toilet paper are undeniable for many, a startling statistic reveals a different reality: approximately 70% of the global population doesn’t use it. This isn’t a reflection of backwardness or lack of access, but rather a cultural and practical preference for alternative, often more sustainable, methods of hygiene.

The primary alternative, and the one employed by the vast majority of those 70%, is water. Across significant swathes of Southern Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia, the use of water for cleansing after using the toilet is deeply ingrained in cultural practices and considered superior for hygiene. This can range from simple hand-washing and rinsing to the use of bidets and specialized shower attachments. In many of these regions, the concept of wiping with dry paper might even seem unsanitary.

This widespread reliance on water raises interesting questions about our own toilet paper-centric habits. The environmental impact of toilet paper production is significant. Vast tracts of forest are felled to provide the pulp, contributing to deforestation and habitat loss. While recycled paper is an option, it often fails to match the softness and absorbency preferred by many consumers, potentially leading to increased paper consumption overall. The manufacturing process itself, from pulping to packaging, also consumes considerable energy and resources.

The contrast between the environmental footprint of toilet paper and the water-based alternatives is striking. While water usage itself needs careful management to avoid wastage, particularly in regions with water scarcity, the overall impact on deforestation is drastically reduced. Furthermore, the potential for water recycling and greywater systems could further lessen its environmental burden.

The prevalence of water-based hygiene isn’t simply a matter of cost. In some instances, it may even be more expensive to procure and maintain a consistent supply of toilet paper than to utilize readily available water resources. The cultural aspect is also paramount; ingrained habits and perceived hygiene standards shape individual and societal preferences.

Understanding this global reality challenges our assumptions about hygiene practices. It highlights the significant cultural diversity in approaches to personal cleanliness and forces a reconsideration of the environmental impact of our everyday choices. While the convenience of toilet paper is undeniable, the global picture demonstrates a viable, and often more sustainable, alternative deeply rooted in the lived experiences of a significant portion of the world’s population. The future of sanitation may well lie in embracing a more nuanced and culturally sensitive approach that considers both practicality and sustainability.