Is Cloud Paper ethical?

Overview

Cloud Paper is a direct-to-consumer brand specializing in bamboo toilet paper, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional virgin wood pulp products. Founded with a mission to reduce deforestation and carbon emissions, the company uses fast-growing bamboo, which requires less water and land than trees. Their product is packaged without plastic, and the brand donates 1% of sales to environmental nonprofits. With an ethics rating of 87/100, Cloud Paper is considered a strong choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Certifications

Cloud Paper holds several notable third-party certifications that validate its ethical and environmental claims:

• FSC Certified – Indicates that the bamboo fiber is sourced from responsibly managed forests that meet strict environmental and social standards.
• Cruelty-Free & PETA Approved – Confirms that no animal testing is conducted at any stage of production and that the brand meets PETA's requirements for cruelty-free certification.
• 1% for the Planet – The company commits at least 1% of annual sales to environmental charities, supporting reforestation, ocean health, and climate initiatives.

Animal testing & vegan range

Cloud Paper is entirely cruelty-free. It is certified by both PETA and as a general cruelty-free brand, meaning no animal testing is done on ingredients or finished products. All their toilet paper products are vegan, as they contain no animal-derived materials or by-products. The brand does not sell any non-vegan items.

Sustainability pledges

Cloud Paper has several sustainability commitments: using 100% bamboo fiber, which grows rapidly and regenerates without replanting; plastic-free packaging made from recycled materials; carbon-neutral shipping through offset programs; and a partnership with 1% for the Planet to fund environmental nonprofits. They also encourage customers to choose bamboo over tree-based toilet paper to reduce deforestation.

Sourcing & labor

Bamboo is sourced primarily from China, where most bamboo for toilet paper originates. Cloud Paper states that they work with FSC-certified suppliers and require compliance with labor laws, but specific third-party audits of labor practices at the farm or manufacturing level are not publicly detailed. The company does not disclose factory names or locations, which is common among DTC brands. There are no reported incidents of child labor or forced labor associated with Cloud Paper, but greater transparency could strengthen their profile.

Controversies context

As of now, Cloud Paper has no major controversies or public scandals. Independent watchdog groups have not flagged the brand for greenwashing or unethical behavior. Some consumer concerns exist about the environmental impact of bamboo farming (e.g., monoculture, pesticide use), but Cloud Paper has not been specifically cited. Their FSC certification helps mitigate some concerns, though FSC does not cover all agricultural practices. Overall, the brand maintains a clean record.

Bottom line

Cloud Paper is a reliable, ethically strong toilet paper brand that appeals to eco-conscious shoppers. With FSC certification, cruelty-free and vegan status, and a commitment to giving back, it scores well on environmental and animal welfare metrics. Its main limitation is limited public information on supply chain labor conditions. If you prioritize sustainability and animal ethics, Cloud Paper is a top choice—especially as it faces no controversies.