Polypropylene non-woven
Polypropylene non-woven reusable plastic bags are not just environmentally friendly, they are also very inexpensive and durable. They are available in almost every color imaginable. They are made from recycled plastic fibers and they are recyclable.
One of the biggest advantages of using non-woven bags is that they require less energy and fresh water to produce. Compared to disposable plastic bags, non-woven polypropylene bags use far less resources and they are recyclable. They can even be laminated to add a glossy finish.
When it comes to reusable biodegradable bags, it is important to consider the whole life cycle of the bag. It is often hard to know whether a bag is environmentally friendly or not. This is especially true when you are looking at the different types of bags.
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Cotton
Reusable plastic bags made from cotton are touted as eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. They can be purchased from Amazon and Etsy. They are lightweight, washable, and nontoxic.
The fact of the matter is that they aren't that good for the environment. For one thing, they are not biodegradable. Rather, they end up in landfills and clog oceans.
It also takes a lot of water and energy to produce cotton. It's a complicated process, with cotton threads woven into fabric, then dyed and bleached.
In addition, it's not uncommon for cotton to carry bacteria. For instance, SARS virus survived on the cotton for up to an hour depending on the exposure.
Despite these issues, tote biodegradable disposable bags are still a popular choice for the eco-warrior. Unfortunately, most totes are not recyclable and have a much larger environmental footprint than plastic.
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LDPE
Reusable plastic bags are made of low density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) which are both derived from petroleum. These materials are used to make trash and grocery bags, as well as packaging, piping and other products.
Reusable plastic bags can be recycled into new products. For example, LDPE plastic bags can be used to make new construction films and agricultural films.
Recycled LDPE is a sustainable alternative to standard plastic. In addition to reducing the environmental impact of producing new plastic, it also reduces waste costs. In 2015, 6.2% of LDPE generated was recycled.
Recycled LDPE is typically mixed with virgin LDPE material in order to make a new end product. The resulting plastic is usually blown film grade. This type of plastic can be tinted to any color.
Pollute our oceans
It's no secret that plastic pollution is a major threat to ocean health. It's estimated that over eight million metric tons of plastic are dumped into the ocean every year. It breaks down into smaller pieces called microplastic, which are harmful to marine life.
In addition to threatening marine life, plastics also release chemicals into the air and water. The chemicals can also end up in the food chain, where humans ingest them.
The ocean is home to more than 267 species, most of which are endangered. Its surface is littered with plastic bags, bottles, straws and toys. These items are consumed by sea mammals and birds.
A recent study found that plastic debris was in the guts of 90 percent of seabirds. Scientists also estimate that over 100,000 sea turtles and birds die annually from plastic waste. Among the most affected animals are juvenile green turtles.
They're a false solution to the pollution crisis
Reusable plastic biodegradable t-shirt bags may be a symbol of progress, but they're also a false solution to the pollution crisis. They do little to address the actual problem and they distract attention away from the real problem.
Plastic bags are a major culprit in environmental disaster. They fill up landfills, clog drains, pollute air and water, and create toxic fumes that can cause cancer. In addition, they are a threat to marine life. They entangle creatures and contaminate seafood that humans have been relying on for millennia.
The best way to combat plastic bags is to use fewer of them. A new recycling law in New York will ban single-use plastic carryout bags on March 1. The law is designed to reduce pollution. It's the first of its kind in the state.
