The bags that we use to carry items are often one of the main polluters when it comes to waste in many different parts of the world. In addition to this plastic bags are often thought of as the worst as they cause untold damage to the world’s oceans and are notoriously difficult to recycle. Both these facts make plastic bags very unpopular with consumers, so why are many businesses still using them in their stores? Well for many it comes down to cost, which unfortunately means the ecological impact normally goes unchecked. Some businesses have done their best in trying to move away from plastic by seeing how they can incorporate things like cardboard boxes from places such as CTP Custom Boxes, and others, for example, to see if that fares better.
Additionally, people even recycle plastic and make constructive products in the hope to reduce the amount of plastic in landfills. For instance, businesses such as ‘swaggr’, make sustainable socks that people can buy. Interestingly, they make these socks from fibers obtained by recycling waste plastic bottles with the motive to never let bottles end up in landfills.
However, paper bags are a product that can serve as a viable alternative to paper bags, they are lightweight, stylish and can be recycled in many different ways. But why exactly are paper bags better for the environment than plastic ones? We break down the answers in today’s article.
- They can be recycled through regular household methods
We’ve all been there. Wanting to recycle plastic bags but being unsure of how to do it or if it is even possible. If you opt for paper bags you will not have this problem. Regular paper bags can be recycled in conventional ways with normal paper and cardboard materials. Just make sure you remove any ribbon or plastic from the paper bag before you recycle it.
- They have greater reusability value as packaging and craft materials
If you are more into the reuse option in the reduce, reuse, recycle mantra then paper bags are a great option. The variety they often come with in terms of design, material and size means they can make great arts and craft material and can be used in a variety of different ways around the home. In addition to the paper bag, ribbon or string that comes with the paper bag can also be great for creating wonderful works of art with the family.
- Paper bags can be produced from recycled paper
Another fantastic innovation when it comes to paper bags is the fact that they can be made from recycled paper! This is great as not only does this stop bags ending up in the landfill, damaging the environment. It also gives you a great product that you can further reuse in the future.
- Biodegradable paper bags can break down if they are discarded
These specialised paper bags are made from natural materials that be broken down through decomposition over time. This is good for the environment as it stops waste material ending up in landfills and prevents them from becoming litter on the streets. That being said you should still try your best to reuse the paper bags as much as possible for maximum benefit to the environment.
Why should I invest in environmentally friendly paper bags?
Paper bags beat their plastic rivals in a variety of different ways and there is now a pretty common consensus on which ones are best for the environment. If you are still unsure about whether you should order paper bags for your business, remember the options you have when it comes to styling.
There are many different paper bag suppliers out there who give you control over the branding on the bag and the overall design. These products can be a great way to market your business and get some repeat customers.