Handkerchiefs

Not so long ago, all people used to carry a hanky. Yet, times have changed and most of us no longer trifle with handkerchiefs. We’ve traded them for disposable tissue packs. However are all “new” ways of living better? I think not, handkerchiefs are a simple way to have a more “pleasurable” nose wiping experience that not only saves billions of dollars but billions of trees too. Here are just a few facts about tissue consumption.

• Globally 42% of all the wood harvested is used to make paper products

• The pulp and paper industry is the single largest consumer of water used in industrial activities and the third greatest industrial greenhouse gas emitter, after the chemical and steel industries

• The tissue market is the fastest growing paper product in the US (averaging 2.1% annual growth for the past ten years).

• Tissues account for 8% of total paper production in the USA (about 9 billion worth).

• Kimberly-Clark (Kleenex maker) estimates an average person spends between $633-$830 on tissues in their lifetime.

You can go on and on with the numbers and statistics but the bottom line is “we” as humans can not continue to cut down trees at such an exponential rate.  I now use hankies daily and enjoy the many benefits. Not only do they feel softer “to the touch” on your nose, they can be used in a multitude of ways. Such as napkins, cleaning rags, blindfolds, fashion statements, hand towels, and more!

So what would you rather have, a hanky in your pocket or trees?