Just finished an article, in today's on-line "Contracting Profits" magazine, by environmental guru Stephen Ashkin (of The Ashkin Group), on the related topics of environmentally responsible restroom paper products, and trash can liners.
We already use a Scott line of 100% recycled material in paper products, so Stephen's recommendation on paper is a no-brainer.
Trash can liners are a bit more interesting, as Stephen points out. Two environmentally preferable options exist:
1) Cornstarch based liners, which biodegrade, but only in compost set-ups, not regular landfills. Not available, commercially, in Phoenix.
2) Plastic liners containing 10% recycled material (to meet EPA's procurement guidelines). Problem is, the recycled material creates weak spots in the plastic, leading to tears; the manufacturer uses thicker material to compensate, thus using more virgin material than in a stronger, 100% virgin bag. Go figure.
We're exploring the option of not using liners at all, in those cans that generally receive only dry material (office paper, etc.). It'll be interesting, seeing what the customers think.....anybody out there tried this?