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.
