Toilet paper rolls and green leaves on wooden table near white brick wall


Every day, millions of people pass through restrooms without giving a second thought to the waste they leave behind. In honor of Global Recycling Day, recognized March 18, and in celebration of Earth Month, Sofidel shares how restrooms can play a pivotal role in reducing waste and supporting sustainability efforts.

“Restrooms are high-traffic areas that generate significant waste, yet they’re often the last place businesses consider when building a sustainability strategy,” says Tahnie Gilliland, Marketing Specialist at Sofidel. “Global Recycling Day is a reminder that the products we choose and how we manage them can have a real environmental impact.”

Five steps facility managers can take today:

1. Choose Certified Paper Products
Switching to paper towels and toilet paper made from trusted third-party organizations, such asGreen SealorForest Stewardship Council(FSC), helps reduce reliance on virgin fibers and supports responsible sourcing practices.

2. Properly Sort Waste
The average restroom visitor uses two to four paper towels per visit, making effective recycling practices essential. Place labeled bins near sinks and hand-drying areas to encourage correct disposal.

3. Switch to Automatic Dispensers
Touchless paper towel dispensers pre-measure each use, reducing over-pulling and cutting unnecessary waste for a measurable environmental impact that adds up quickly in high-traffic restrooms.

4. Educate Staff and Visitors
Display easy-to-understand recycling instructions and equip custodial teams with training to improve recycling efficiency and reduce waste contamination.

5. Use High-capacity Product Formats
High-capacity paper towel and toilet paper rolls last longer and require fewer changeouts, which helps reduce packaging waste while maintaining a consistent supply. Reviewing usage patterns helps facilities right-size their products and eliminate unnecessary waste.