It is almost unbelievable that the worldwide consumption of disposable bags is around one million per minute. But with over 500 billion being used each year that is the result, and the effect that it is having on our environment is profound. Many shops and chains are converting to the use of reusable or biodegradable bags in order to protect the world one bag at a time. Here is a short guide to some of the options for your business when deciding what bags to use.
Paper Bags
The main benefit of using paper bags is that they are biodegradable, versatile and made from a renewable resource. Paper bags appear professional and are usually stronger than their plastic counterparts. The fact that they are made from renewable resources means that they will not harm the environment to the same extent as other options. A paper bag also looks professional and is an understated way to show that your company cares about the environment. Paper bags are not resistant to water but they are durable and relatively cheap to buy.
Calico bags
Calico bags are made from unbleached cotton making them natural, durable and reusable. A cotton bag can be reused multiple times to carry heavy objects because they are both strong and reliable. They are also lightweight and easy to roll up into a small size so they can be transported easily to always be at hand. Calico bags are used in many shops to provide a professional feel to any sale because they are comfortable to carry and high quality.
Jute bags
Jute or hessian bags are very strong and durable. These bags are made from course fibre which is then woven into very strong products perfect for carrying heavy items. A jute bag will last a long time and they are reliable so people will carry them with them for shopping purposes. Another benefit to jute bags is that the crops required to make them require very little water to make them grow. This benefits the environment because water need not be taken out of the natural water systems in order to irrigate crops. However, most jute bags will be imported and will thus have a large carbon footprint in comparison to other materials.
Polypropylene and polyethylene reusable bags
Both of these materials are forms of plastic so they can be recycled or made from recycled materials. They are very cheap to produce as well as being waterproof and strong. However, large numbers of polypropylene and polyethylene bags end up in international landfills every year and they do not degrade for hundreds of years.
What’s in it for you?
Whilst the cost of reusable bags may make you consider less environmentally friendly options, there are benefits for any company which fronts the extra cost. The use of reusable bags will not only make your customers respect your care for the environment and will also turn them into walking advertisements for your business. By investing in promotional bags of high quality you will ensure that some customers will use the bags on a regular basis for the day to day transport of goods. If your bag becomes a tool for weekly shopping then your advert will be spread far and wide, free of charge. This is a relatively cheap way to reach a large audience of potential customers.
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