A green-fingered man claims he has saved thousands of pounds by not buying toilet roll for a decade – using a plant leaf instead.
Robin Greenfield, 36, quit using shop-bought wipes in 2013 – replacing it with leftover napkins and tissues.
He then realised the leaf of a blue spur flower was the perfect size and texture – and has used that ever since.
Environmentalist Robin, from Asheville, North Carolina, estimates he has saved a significant sum. And he now wants to encourage others to abandon conventional toilet roll.
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He said: “Consumption of toilet paper fuels deforestation and massive usage of fossil fuels in transportation.
“So the message to grow our own at home and find alternatives to consumerism has never been more relevant.”
Robin discovered the blue spur flower – which is native to Africa and South Asia – five years ago. He says each leaf is the size of a piece of toilet paper – and its soft texture makes it a viable alternative
And Robin said the plant can simply be planted at home in order to have a supply of toilet paper to last a lifetime
He said: “All in all the idea is pretty simple.
“Currently, we’re totally dependent on corporations who are making millions by destroying the planet.
“Fossil fuels and big factories are causing a lot of destruction, and growing your own loo paper is fun and eco-friendly.
“The average American spends $11,198 on toilet paper over the course of their life, so there is a huge financial benefit too.
“The leaves are super soft, can withstand pressure and won’t break through – plus they have a natural, minty scent.
“The plant is easy to grow, and fundamentally won’t do any damage to the environment!”
Robin’s non-profit campaign firm is providing cuttings of the plant for those who want to try it.
He has just concluded an 11-day tour of Florida where he visited different cities promoting his campaign.
Members of the public were invited to take a ‘toilet paper plant’ home with them to start growing their own toilet paper.
They also had the opportunity to sit on Robin’s display compost toilet and take a photo, or record a video, sharing the #GrowYourOwnTP movement.
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