Let’s face it, you have to make a host of decisions whenever you visit your local grocery store. While majority of us are drawn to low prices and discounts, many of us gets inspired by environmental considerations too. But this decision isn’t restricted to the products only as those of us who’re really keen about reducing their carbon footprint want to ensure they’re using the sustainable shopping carrier.
Broadly, we have three options available. Initially, there was no other better substitute available and people opted for plastic bags. With increased awareness about the harmful impacts of plastic usage and the fact that it will take more than 1000 years to decompose, many households and professionals switched to paper bags. While paper bags are somewhat better if we compare its environmental impact to plastic alternatives, they’re delicate and expensive. That is where reusable bags come to your salvage.
Reusable canvas bags has gained substantial momentum in recent times due to their strength and durability. Unlike plastic or paper bags, canvas bags can withstand a lot of weight without getting damaged. The best bit? Canvas bags are reusable, natural and eco-friendly and can be used on routine basis to reduce environmental impact.
With 2020 approaching fast, we’ve decided to put together a post explaining the pros and cons of each of these options. In the end, we’ll see what’s the hottest trend-to-be in the coming year.
Plastic
According to US EPA, with hundreds and thousands of stray plastic bags, Americans go through modern menace each year. While these bags can be recycled, most of them end up in the streets and landfills. The standard plastic bag that we use for grocery shopping is crafted from HDPE and is by far the cheapest of options we have till date. However, it’s also the bitter fact that plastic is primarily derived from petroleum which is a scarce resource.
Also, recycling plastic bags is extremely difficult. As mentioned above, it can take massive 1000 years to decompose a single plastic bag. Mostly, these bags fly out of the trash and stick to branches or end up in lakes. For these particular reasons, many big metropolitan cities do not accept them in their recycling stream. While there are people who try to reuse their plastic bags in order to reduce their carbon footprint, mostly these bags are fated to become dustbin liners and ultimately end up in junkyards or landfills.
Paper Bags
Paper bags, on the other hand, are biodegradable and their impact on our environment is less severe than plastic. But, it takes a great deal of effort along with plenty of precious natural resources including water and fuel to produce these bags on a large scale. And, they usually don’t last long. The manufacturing process again contributes to carbon emissions and uses four times more water and fuel as plastic bags. In addition to that, the manufacturing process also makes use of fertilizers and other toxic chemicals that eventually leads to acid rain at greater rates.
Also, it wouldn’t be incorrect if we say that the paper bags may not be the best choice especially when it comes to grocery shopping. It easily tears apart and cannot withstand lots of weight. In fact, if you opt for paper grocery bags, you may have to carry many bags at a time to distribute weight.
Reusable Canvas Bags
Reusable canvas bags are a definite savior especially if you’re really looking to go green in the coming year. These bags are made up of cotton and are manufactured using weave technique. That is one of the biggest reasons why these bags are extremely strong and durable. Unlike paper bags, you can carry loads of weight in your canvas bag without worrying about wear or tear.
While, these bags also make use of plenty of natural resources, the reusability factor covers up the basic cost and significantly helps in reducing drastic environmental consequences. Canvas bags are available in a wide range of options (including colors and designs) so if you’re worried about keeping the stylish soul alive within you, these bags can definitely make a perfect fit.
Uses of Reusable Bags in 2020
- 2020 is expected to be the year of change and innovation. From fashion choices to marketing and advertising tools, there will be an element of novelty and class. Canvas bags will be the top priority when it comes to selecting the right advertising tool for the business. These bags will be used by marketing managers as a promotional tool to show the eco-friendly nature of their business
- Since the concept of sustainability isn’t confined to business units and professionals only, households and even students will ditch their conventional options and opt for reusable canvas bags to carry their important stuff
- There are many fashion designers who’re working relentlessly to introduce their exclusive sustainable fashion range including clothing and accessories. These designers will also make use of colorful, customized bags to pack their eco-friendly products
- Health conscious people who knows the disadvantages of using plastic bags for carrying food will hopefully switch their choices and include reusable canvas bag substitutes to carry their edibles
- Instead of using plastic or paper gift bags, people hopefully would choose decorative canvas bags to pack their presents
While, plastic bags may seem like an affordable option, its impact on our environment can be drastic. Similarly, paper bags are a good disposable choice but the amount of resources they consume in the manufacturing process makes this option less environmental friendly.
Canvas bags are expected to outperform both plastic and paper bag alternatives in 2020. Apart from choosing an eco-friendly bag, it’s important to reuse them sufficient number of times to reduce its carbon footprint on our environment. Also, how you dispose of these bags can make a huge difference.
In conclusion, it’s safe to say that the canvas or reusable bags are the future. What are your thoughts on this? Feel free to drop your input below as we would love to hear back.