203: It’s Not Just Toilet Paper: The Hidden Cost of Everyday Products (and What to Do Instead) with Sahar Karoubi
In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, we talk to Sahar Karoubi, founder of Bambuyu, a sustainable tissue company challenging the way everyday household products are made and consumed.
Together, we unpack something most of us use daily, toilet paper, and explore the hidden systems behind it, from deforestation and material sourcing to the real impact of “eco” alternatives. Sahar shares how her personal sustainability journey as a mother led her to build Bambuyu, why bamboo stood out as a powerful alternative to traditional tree-based tissues, and what it actually takes to create a sustainable product in a very conventional industry.
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:
[00:00]-Intro
[02:59]- The Birth of Bamboo You: A Sustainable Solution
[06:02]- Understanding Bamboo vs. Traditional Trees
[08:59]- The Process of Creating Bamboo Products
[12:03]- The Impact of Small Choices on Sustainability
[14:57]- Challenges in Building a Sustainable Business
[18:11]- The Journey of a Startup: Lessons Learned
[21:05]- Shark Tank Experience and Its Impact
[23:55]- Navigating Sustainability and Business Decisions
[26:58]- Transparency and Customer Engagement
[29:56]- Future Plans for Bamboo You
[32:54]- Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners
Links from the episodes:
Living Lighter, A Practical Guide to Reducing Waste – Online Course by Mariska Nell
Download your Free Beginner’s Guide To Waste-Free Living
Join our newsletter to be part of the change
Watch the interview on YouTube
Where can people find our guest?
Key Takeaways:
- Sustainability starts with everyday choices.
- Bamboo is a sustainable alternative to traditional trees.
- 27,000 trees are cut down daily for toilet paper.
- Bamboo grows back quickly, making it a renewable resource.
- Everyday products can be tools for sustainability.
- Quality matters in sustainable products.
- Recycled paper involves extensive processing and chemicals.
- Building a sustainable business comes with unique challenges.
- Transparency with customers fosters trust and engagement.
- Sustainable decisions should become mainstream.
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.